The Los Angeles Dodgers had a successful offseason, highlighted by the signing of Japanese star Roki Sasaki from the Chiba Lotte Marines. Sasaki, a highly sought-after free agent, opted for a Minor League contract with the Dodgers despite larger offers from other teams. His decision comes as he reunites with fellow Japanese players Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who aided in his recruitment. As one of Japan's top pitchers, Sasaki's transition to Major League Baseball is anticipated to be supported by his teammates, with high expectations for his debut and a potential Rookie of the Year award.
I'm very happy to have him on the same team with us," Yamamoto said of Sasaki, a former teammate on Japan's 2023 World Baseball Classic squad whom Yamamoto helped recruit this winter.
Sasaki will have an adjustment period in the Majors, just like any other player coming from a different league. However, he will have Ohtani and Yamamoto to fall back on for guidance, which should help make the transition smoother.
Sasaki is considered one of the greatest pitchers to come out of Japan and has a chance to make his MLB debut in the country during the Tokyo Series next month.
Expectations couldn't be higher for Sasaki in his first season with the Dodgers as several MLB executives predicted that he will win National League Rookie of the Year honors.
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