Japanese Pitching Phenomenon Roki Sasaki to Join 2025 International Signing Class

MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred announced on Wednesday that Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki is expected to join the 2025 international amateur signing class. This means Sasaki likely won't be signing with a Major League Baseball (MLB) team before January 15.

"It looks like ... the signing will happen in the new pool period," Manfred confirmed, indicating the anticipated timeline for Sasaki's transition to MLB.

Since Sasaki is only 22 years old and hasn't accumulated six years of professional service time, he falls under MLB's international amateur signing bonus pool rules. This restricts the value of his MLB contract to the funds available in a team's bonus pool. Currently, the Los Angeles Dodgers have approximately $2.5 million left in their bonus pool for the 2024 international signing period, the highest among all teams. However, if Sasaki waits until the 2025 international signing period begins on January 15, he could secure a contract worth around $7 million.

For a detailed overview of the international bonus pools for the 2025 signing period, MLB.com's Jonathan Mayo has provided a complete list.

Before Sasaki can sign with an MLB team, he must be posted by his Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) team, the Chiba Lotte Marines. Earlier this month, the Chiba Lotte Marines announced their intention to post Sasaki this offseason, paving the way for his move to MLB.

Sasaki's move to MLB has generated considerable excitement. Known for his impressive pitching velocity and advanced skills, he is considered one of Japan's top talents and has the potential to make an immediate impact in the major leagues.

​As January 15 approaches, teams and fans will be eagerly watching to see which team will secure this promising young pitcher. With the Dodgers and other teams vying for his signature, Sasaki's entry into MLB promises to be one of the most anticipated events of the upcoming season.