Ex-Red Sox Executive Senses Roki Sasaki Turning Down NL Team…

Ex-Red Sox Executive Senses Roki Sasaki Turning Down NL Team

 

In a surprising turn of events, a former Boston Red Sox executive has expressed his belief that Roki Sasaki, Japan’s budding pitching sensation, might be turning down the opportunity to join a National League (NL) team in Major League Baseball (MLB) when he eventually decides to cross the Pacific and pursue his dream of playing in the United States. Sasaki, a 23-year-old ace for the Chiba Lotte Marines of Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), has long been viewed as one of the most exciting young talents in the baseball world, drawing comparisons to the likes of Shohei Ohtani and even historic legends like Sandy Koufax.

 

Sasaki’s impeccable pitching mechanics, fastball velocity that regularly exceeds 100 mph, and an array of devastating secondary pitches, including a legendary splitter, have all contributed to his growing reputation as one of the most tantalizing international prospects of his generation. Many believe he has the potential to dominate in MLB, but now speculation is swirling about which teams he may target when he becomes eligible for the major leagues.

 

Sasaki’s Future in MLB: A Star on the Horizon

 

For the past few years, Sasaki’s name has been at the forefront of any discussion surrounding international players who could make an immediate impact in the MLB. His near-perfect game in the NPB in 2022, in which he struck out 19 batters and allowed no hits, was a moment that captured the attention of scouts across the globe. Many industry experts have predicted that Sasaki’s transition to MLB will be a matter of when, not if. Despite his youth, Sasaki’s performance has already earned him a reputation as a top-tier talent, and it seems only a matter of time before a team in the MLB secures his services.

 

However, as much as the anticipation grows, Sasaki’s potential move to the U.S. may not be as straightforward as many believe. Former Red Sox executive Mike Hazen, who has spent years in the MLB front office and worked closely with international scouting efforts, suggested that Sasaki could be holding out for a specific situation in the major leagues that might exclude certain teams, particularly those in the National League.

 

The NL vs. AL Debate

 

Mike Hazen’s comments came during a recent interview, in which he speculated on Sasaki’s potential decision-making process when it comes to selecting an MLB team. Hazen, who is known for his sharp insight into the workings of the baseball world, noted that the National League’s traditional pitching-heavy culture may not be as attractive to a pitcher of Sasaki’s caliber as it once was. While the AL is known for its designated hitter (DH) rule, which allows pitchers to focus solely on their pitching duties without the added responsibility of batting, the National League, which only introduced the universal DH rule in 2022, has typically required pitchers to take at-bats and field.

 

“Roki Sasaki is a pitcher who’s capable of doing incredible things on the mound. The fact that he could become one of the most dominant pitchers in the world makes him a highly sought-after commodity,” Hazen remarked. “But given the intensity and nature of his pitching style, I would not be surprised if he leans toward the AL, where he could focus solely on what he does best — pitch.”

 

While Hazen’s comments are purely speculative, they are grounded in a deeper understanding of the challenges that international players often face when coming to the MLB. Sasaki’s unique skill set, coupled with his youth and the pressure of a highly anticipated MLB debut, could lead him to consider the American League, where the DH rule provides a more pitcher-friendly environment.

 

In the past, Japanese pitchers have made the leap to MLB with varied results. Some, like Ohtani, have thrived in both pitching and hitting roles, but others have struggled with the added demands of batting and fielding. Sasaki, however, has consistently been regarded as a pitcher-first player, and any distraction from his primary craft could be seen as a deterrent for his development and long-term success.

 

Sasaki’s Career in Japan: A Glimpse into the Future

 

Sasaki’s rise to prominence in Japan has been meteoric. Having debuted at just 18 years old in 2019, the Chiba Lotte Marines have been carefully managing his workload to prevent injury while allowing him to develop at his own pace. In his first few seasons, Sasaki was regarded as a potential generational talent, with his fastball regularly touching triple digits and his splitter being hailed as one of the best in the game.

 

Despite the growing interest from MLB teams, Sasaki has expressed a desire to take his time before making the decision to leave Japan. He has made it clear that he wants to continue developing his game in the NPB while enjoying the support of his local fanbase. Yet, the allure of MLB — with its massive stage and global attention — is undeniable, and it’s likely only a matter of time before he makes the jump.

 

The AL Advantage for Sasaki

 

The American League could offer Sasaki several key advantages that might make it more appealing than an NL team. First and foremost is the aforementioned DH rule, which allows pitchers to focus entirely on their craft. By not having to bat, Sasaki can avoid the potential for injury or fatigue that may come with taking at-bats. Additionally, the AL’s more hitter-friendly environment could play to Sasaki’s strengths, allowing him to unleash his full potential on the mound without worrying about the demands of being a two-way player.

 

Furthermore, the American League offers an array of teams with advanced pitching development systems that could benefit Sasaki’s growth. Teams like the New York Yankees, Houston Astros, and Boston Red Sox have consistently shown an ability to get the most out of international pitchers. Given Sasaki’s immense upside, he would likely be a highly coveted target for these franchises, with their pitching development staff working to tailor his skills for maximum success.

 

Sasaki’s Decision: A Global Event

 

While Sasaki’s eventual MLB arrival remains uncertain, one thing is clear: wherever he ends up, it will be a global event. His arrival will bring a surge of international attention to the MLB, much like Ohtani did when he made his U.S. debut. Whether he opts for a team in the National League or the American League, Sasaki’s talents are set to elevate the profile of the MLB on the global stage. If Hazen’s predictions are accurate, Sasaki’s eventual destination may very well be an AL team, where he can focus on pitching and leave the bat to someone else.

 

As fans, scouts, and front offices eagerly await Sasaki’s decision, one thing is for certain — the future of baseball looks incredibly bright with the emergence of stars like Roki Sasaki. Whether he dons the colors of a National League team or joins the growing contingent of AL superstars, his impact on the game is sure to be felt for years to come.