Roki Sasaki’s desires for the next team revealed

AJ Preller’s search for Roki Sasaki, this offseason’s standout prize, may have unofficially begun in mid-summer.

On June 6, Padres pitcher Yu Darvish was placed on the restricted list due to a personal family matter. In the following weeks, Preller showed a keen sense of ‘feeling’ that earned him praise from both Darvish and a key member of his camp, who openly admired his approach.

Now that Sasaki – who will be drafted by the Chiba Lotte Marines this season – is ready to make the jump to Major League Baseball, he has a trusted guide in Darvish.

When Sasaki is drafted, a lot will depend on the Padres’ ability to recruit him effectively. That’s what league sources say Will Sammon of The Athletic, Sasaki’s main priorities when choosing a team are stability, lifestyle, comfort and a strong record of player development.

San Diego is well positioned to provide these factors. With Yu Darvish and reliever Yuki Matsui in the clubhouse, along with Japanese legend Hideo Nomo in the front office, the Padres have the resources to facilitate a smooth transition for Sasaki.

In the statement announcing the Marines’ decision to post him, Sasaki said he was “very grateful.”

“I will do my best to work my way up from my minor (league) contract to become the best player in the world so that I will not regret my one and only baseball career,” Sasaki said in the statement. and so that I can live up to the expectations of everyone who supported me this time.”

Is Sasaki ready for Major League Baseball?

‘To be honest, he still has a lot to learn’ Chiba Lotta Marines manager Masato Yoshii said early Saturday morning as part of the Marines’ statement announcing their intention to post Sasaki, widely considered one of the world’s best throwers. “But I think he will be able to sharpen himself and improve his level in America.”

Sasaki had been eager to pitch in the MLB for a while. He finished the 2024 season on a high note, posting a 2.35 ERA in 111 innings, with 129 strikeouts and only 32 walks. However, he was dealing with an indirect problem and what sources describe as shoulder fatigue.

Over four seasons in the NPB, Sasaki posted an ERA of 2.10 and a WHIP of 0.89. With a fastball that regularly reaches 100 mph and a deadly splitter, he is considered a potential top player in any rotation.