Any team that wants to take in the next top-notch talent from Japan must have a dedicated Sushi dinner organized. The recent signing of Roki Sasaki by the Los Angeles Dodgers has stirred the pot in MLB. A major part of the signing connects two other Japanese phenoms, Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto.
Reports suggest that during a Sushi dinner in December, these sluggers took the opportunity to discuss Sasaki’s potential future in the league. With Ohtani and Yamamoto already established members of the Dodgers’ organization, their influence undoubtedly shaped how Sasaki viewed the team. They would probably have emphasized the Dodgers’ winning culture and the unique opportunity to be part of a roster with a cultural background.
“In December, Ohtani and Yamamoto took Sasaki to dinner, according to multiple people with knowledge of the situation not authorized to speak publicly. The topics discussed are unknown,” Dodgers insider Jack Harris wrote.
Roki Sasaki
— MLB (@MLB) January 22, 2025
Yoshinobu Yamamoto
Shohei Ohtani
Japan's biggest stars will officially take center stage for the @Dodgers in 2025 ⭐️ pic.twitter.com/DxLV4FtIKv
As earlier reported, Sasaki’s final choice was squared down to the Padres, Blue Jays, and Dodgers, but the latter seemed to have an ultimate edge. This situation largely stems from the presence of Ohtani and Yamamoto. They are now considered de facto ambassadors for the Japanese franchise. The timing of the dinner with Ohtani and Yamamoto aligns perfectly with his decision-making process. This suggests that Sasaki valued the insights and encouragement from players who have successfully tread a similar path.
During an introductory press conference, Sasaki articulated his admiration for the Dodgers’ organizational stability and the depth of their pitching infrastructure. The same thing was earlier highlighted by his agent, Joel Wolfe, as a key factor in their negotiations.
Also Read: REPORT: MLB Finds No Wrongdoing Between Roki Sasaki And The Dodgers After Investigation
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Roki Sasaki Acknowledges Playing Along With Other Japanese Stars At Dodgers
During the recent media conference following his signing with the LA Dodgers for a staggering $6.5 million, Roki Sasaki shared his insights. He addressed how Shohei Ohtani’s presence influenced his decision. Many fans have speculated that Ohtani’s star power played a decisive role in attracting Sasaki to Los Angeles. He clarified that while it certainly weighed on his mind, it wasn’t the primary factor in his choice.
“Being able to play with Ohtani & Yamamoto… I hope to be able to stand side-by-side with them,” Sasaki said.
"Being able to play with Ohtani & Yamamoto… I hope to be able to stand side-by-side with them."
— SportsNet LA (@SportsNetLA) January 22, 2025
-Roki Sasaki on being reunited with his fellow Japanese teammates. pic.twitter.com/7LlZXQOO9T
Sasaki pointed out that the main reason for his decision to join the Dodgers was the team’s strong and stable front office. He expressed that this stability was crucial for a young player transitioning from Japan to Major League Baseball.
“The number one thing that stood out [about the Dodgers] was the stability of the front office,” he added.
As he steps onto the field in his new No. 11 jersey Sasaki feels a sense of gratitude for the support he has received. The young star chose the number after switching with Miguel Rojas. While pundits compare him to established talents like Shohei Ohtani and Paul Skenes, Sasaki remains focused on his journey.
