Roki Sasaki might just be the most intriguing rookie in Major League Baseball today. At only 23 years old, the Japanese pitcher joined the Los Angeles Dodgers with sky-high expectations after dazzling performances in Nippon Professional Baseball. While he was signed as an international amateur with a modest $6.5 million bonus, experts already believe he could command a $200 million contract once he hits free agency in 2030.
According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, Sasaki stands out as both a mystery and a marvel. “He could become the best pitcher in the world-or a major ‘what-if,'” Passan wrote. Much of that uncertainty stems from his signature weapon: a devastating splitter that’s already turning heads in the big leagues.
Adjusting to the spotlight
Sasaki’s early days in MLB haven’t been spotless. Through 30 innings, he holds a 3.86 ERA, with 24 strikeouts and 20 walks. His Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP) sits at 5.37, indicating some bumps in the road. He’s had outings where his command faltered, especially early on, often missing the strike zone and showing hesitation in pitch selection.
Still, the flashes of brilliance are hard to ignore. His fastball is averaging 96.1 mph, and though it doesn’t yet touch the triple digits as it did in Japan, there’s reason to believe that mechanical tweaks could unlock even more velocity, and value.
A unicorn in the making
What makes Sasaki stand out isn’t just raw power, but pitch design. His splitter has been described as “a unicorn pitch,” nearly impossible to predict and equally hard to hit. In an era where hitters adjust rapidly, having a unique weapon gives Sasaki an edge many veterans envy.
If he continues to refine his control and find confidence in his pitch mix, the Dodgers may have landed one of the best pitching investments in recent memory. And while his road to stardom might still be under construction, the destination could be historic.
A few years from now, a $200 million contract may not just be a projection, it could be the new standard for the Dodgers‘ next ace.
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