Roki Sasaki’s decision to sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers has sparked controversy throughout the league. Several MLB fans were upset that Sasaki picked the Dodgers, while some MLB insiders felt there was a pre-cut deal between the team and Sasaki.
Sasaki’s decision to join the Dodgers was his personal choice. However, with the Dodgers luring top players to their team, many believe they were already in on the Japanese star even before the process started.
Fans and insiders have hoped for the league to investigate the situation. It turns out that the MLB had already conducted an investigation before authorizing Roki Sasaki’s posting. The league had to ensure that protocol was followed. The Dodgers were not the only team to meet with him.
The league also discussed the same with the Chiba Lotte Marines. The Marines were ready to part ways with a top pitcher. What might seem surprising is the Marines were ready to surrender Sasaki for much less than Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Seiya Suzuki. The Marines received a limited payout with their posting system. Yet, there has been no wrongdoing between Sasaki and the Dodgers.
MLB Conducted Investigation Prior To Roki Sasaki's Posting https://t.co/QuVoVY25IU pic.twitter.com/fj6Y2bQKu7
— MLB Trade Rumors (@mlbtraderumors) January 19, 2025
Roki Sasaki’s Agent Denies Any Agreement With The Dodgers
Sasaki’s agent, Joel Wolfe, also denied that there was a pre-cut deal between the two. Wolfe made a statement back in November when many speculated that Sasaki and the Dodgers had a “handshake” deal.
“While a bunch of executives who should know me better and do a lot of business with me insult my integrity by insinuating that I would be a part of some type of nefarious agreement, in reality, this is just poor sportsmanship,” Wolfe said.
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Sasaki is comfortable with the Dodgers for various reasons. The pitcher is going to join one of the best teams in the league. Considering that he wants to win, the Dodgers seem to be the perfect fit for the Japanese star.
Moreover, Roki Sasaki will get to play with his friends Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto. The Japanese pitcher’s decision to join the Dodgers has gathered hate among several fans.
