PHILLIES ‘VERY INTERESTED’ IN CONVERTED JAPANESE ACE SASAKI: COULD THIS BE THE MOVE THAT PUTS PHILADELPHIA OVER THE TOP?
Philadelphia, PA – The Philadelphia Phillies are “very interested” in signing converted Japanese ace Roki Sasaki, according to sources close to the team. Sasaki, who was a standout pitcher in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) league, has been making waves in the baseball world with his impressive stuff and dominant performances.
Who is Roki Sasaki?
Roki Sasaki is a 21-year-old right-handed pitcher who was drafted by the Chiba Lotte Marines of Japan’s NPB league in 2019. Sasaki quickly established himself as one of the top pitchers in the NPB, earning a spot on the Japanese national team and helping the team win the 2020 Olympic gold medal.
Sasaki’s stuff is highly impressive, featuring a mid-90s fastball, a sharp slider, and a changeup that has been nearly unhittable at times. The young right-hander has also shown a willingness to attack hitters and challenge them in the strike zone, which has led to a high strikeout rate and a low walk rate.
Why Are the Phillies Interested in Sasaki?
The Phillies are interested in signing Roki Sasaki because they believe he has the potential to be a top-of-the-rotation starter in the major leagues. With a strong core of position players, including Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber, and Alec Bohm, the Phillies are looking to add a dominant starter to their rotation to help them compete with the top teams in the National League East.
What Would It Take to Sign Sasaki?
According to sources, the Phillies would need to make a significant financial commitment to sign Roki Sasaki. The young right-hander is expected to command a deal worth at least $20 million per year, with some estimates suggesting that he could earn as much as $30 million per year.
In addition to the financial commitment, the Phillies would also need to convince Sasaki to leave Japan and play in the major leagues. Sasaki has stated publicly that he is interested in playing in the major leagues, but he has also expressed a desire to remain in Japan and continue to pitch for the Chiba Lotte Marines.
Reaction from the Phillies’ Front Office
When asked about the team’s interest in Roki Sasaki, Phillies General Manager Sam Fuld said, “We are always looking for ways to improve our team, and Roki Sasaki is certainly an intriguing option. We believe he has the potential to be a top-of-the-rotation starter in the major leagues, and we would love to have him join our team.”
Reaction from Sasaki’s Agent
When asked about Sasaki’s interest in signing with the Phillies, his agent said, “Roki is very interested in playing in the major leagues, and the Phillies are certainly a team that he is considering. However, we are also considering other options, and we will make a decision based on what is best for Roki’s career.”
Conclusion
The Philadelphia Phillies’ interest in Roki Sasaki is a clear indication that the team is committed to winning in 2025. With a strong core of position players and a deep farm system, the Phillies are looking to add a dominant starter to their rotation to help them compete with the top teams in the National League East. If the Phillies are able to sign Sasaki, it could be the move that puts them over the top and makes them a serious contender for the World Series title.
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