The international signing period is upon us, and all eyes are on Japanese pitching sensation Roki Sasaki. With three teams left in the race—the Dodgers, Padres, and Blue Jays—the baseball world is buzzing about where Sasaki will land. Each team offers compelling reasons for him to sign, making this decision one of the most anticipated moments of the offseason.
For the Dodgers, the allure of joining a reigning World Series champion and a roster already featuring multiple Japanese stars is undeniable. Their track record with international players speaks for itself, offering a proven path to both personal and team success. Meanwhile, the Padres bring a deeply personal connection to the table. Yu Darvish, Sasaki’s childhood idol and mentor, could provide the mentorship and cultural familiarity Sasaki values most. Then there’s Toronto, whose state-of-the-art facilities and reputation for nurturing pitchers could be the perfect environment for Sasaki to thrive.
With offers expected to be close financially, Sasaki’s choice may ultimately come down to personal priorities—legacy, mentorship, or development. Wherever he lands, his signing will undoubtedly shift the balance of power in the league.
