The Chiba Lotte Marines have made the decision to move their standout pitcher, Roki Sasaki, to a Major League Baseball team in North America through the posting system. Sasaki, who recently turned 23, is anticipated to be a highly sought-after talent in the upcoming offseason.
During the current season, Sasaki showcased his prowess on the mound, compiling a 10-5 record with an impressive 2.35 ERA across 18 games. His dominant performance included striking out 129 batters over 111 innings pitched.
As per MLB regulations, Sasaki, being under the age of 25, will be considered an international amateur free agent, subject to bonus pool restrictions. This means that his initial contract with a major league team will likely be a minor league deal not exceeding seven figures.
The Marines will be entitled to a percentage fee for posting Sasaki, the exact amount of which will be determined based on the value of his eventual contract. The timeline for Sasaki's official posting and the subsequent 45-day window for him to secure a deal with a major league club is yet to be finalized.
Sasaki's achievements on the field include aiding Japan in winning the 2023 World Baseball Classic. Known for his blazing fastball, which has been recorded at an impressive 102.5 mph, Sasaki boasts a career record of 29-15 with a stellar 2.10 ERA over four seasons with the Marines, albeit marred by injuries.
One of the standout moments of Sasaki's career came in April 2022 when he pitched a perfect game against the Orix Buffaloes, registering 13 consecutive strikeouts and a total of 19 strikeouts in the game.
In a statement shared by the Marines on social media, Sasaki expressed his gratitude towards the team for supporting his aspirations of pursuing a career in MLB. He acknowledged the challenges faced during his time with the Marines but affirmed his commitment to giving his all to reach the pinnacle of the sport and fulfill the expectations of his supporters.
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