The Los Angeles Dodgers have once again bolstered their pitching rotation with the addition of Roki Sasaki, a highly touted Japanese pitcher making his Major League Baseball (MLB) debut in 2025.
Sasaki, known for his blazing fastball and historic performances in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), will take the mound for the Dodgers in the Tokyo Series against the Chicago Cubs on Wednesday. His arrival marks another significant international signing for the franchise, joining fellow Japanese stars Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto.
Sasaki’s net worth & first MLB contract
Sasaki’s transition to the MLB has been a long-anticipated move, with scouts and fans eager to see how his dominance in Japan translates to the major leagues.
The 23-year-old right-hander made headlines with his record-breaking perfect game in 2022, earning a reputation as one of the most exciting young pitchers in baseball.
Now, as he steps onto the mound for the Dodgers, many are wondering about the financial details of his contract and how it compares to other top-tier international signings.
Despite his immense talent, Sasaki’s MLB deal is relatively modest due to international signing regulations for players under 25.
In January 2025, he agreed to a minor league contract with the Dodgers, which included a $6.5 million signing bonus.
This figure is significantly lower than what he might have commanded had he waited until turning 25, at which point he would have been eligible for a much larger, unrestricted MLB contract.
However, Sasaki prioritized his dream of playing in the majors over financial incentives, opting to make the jump to MLB earlier in his career.
As of 2025, Sasaki’s estimated net worth is approximately $5 million, stemming from his professional baseball earnings, sponsorships, and endorsements.
While his current contract may not be as lucrative as those signed by veteran Japanese stars, his potential to secure a high-value MLB extension in the coming years remains strong.
With his elite fastball, exceptional pitching mechanics, and a track record of success in Japan, Sasaki is well-positioned to become one of the league’s top pitchers, paving the way for greater financial rewards in the future.
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