Dodgers Eye Japanese Pitcher Roki Sasaki Amidst Free Agent Frenzy and Roster Challenges

January 13, 2025
Dodgers Eye Japanese Pitcher Roki Sasaki Amidst Free Agent Frenzy and Roster Challenges
  • The Los Angeles Dodgers are among the three finalists, along with the San Diego Padres and Toronto Blue Jays, vying for the signature of Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki, who is eligible to sign with a team from January 15 to January 23, 2025.

  • Dodgers president Andrew Friedman has made it clear that pursuing Sasaki is a top priority for the organization, although they have kept their efforts largely under wraps.

  • Sasaki is regarded as an elite talent, boasting impressive performances in high-level leagues and international tournaments, making him a highly sought-after player.

  • Meanwhile, Jack Flaherty, who had a successful 2024 season with a 3.17 ERA and a World Series ring, is now a free agent, raising questions about his future.

  • The Dodgers face uncertainties in their pitching rotation due to injuries to key players like Tyler Glasnow, Tony Gonsolin, and Dustin May, making Flaherty an attractive option for added depth.

  • In contrast, the Los Angeles Angels have been relatively quiet this offseason after making significant signings earlier, leaving them with fewer immediate needs.

  • Flaherty is reportedly open to short-term contracts with high average annual values, reflecting a shift in his approach to free agency.

  • The San Francisco Giants are also seen as a strong candidate for Flaherty, especially after missing out on other pitchers and having a strategy focused on short-term, flexible contracts.

  • In the free agency landscape, Alex Bregman remains a notable name, with ongoing discussions about his market value as teams assess their needs.

  • The Blue Jays, under pressure to be aggressive as their contention window narrows, are also in the mix for Flaherty, alongside their pursuit of other free agents.

  • The competitive nature of signing international players is highlighted by the recent $1.8 million deal signed by Morel with the Pittsburgh Pirates.

  • The current free agency system remains in place until at least 2026, as the absence of an international draft continues to shape the landscape for teams and players.

Summary based on 69 sources


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