Padres still seen as Roki Sasaki favorites despite meetings with big-market clubs

The San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Dodgers are still reportedly the favorites to sign Roki Sasaki this offseason, per Brian Murphy of MLB.com.

San Diego is dealing with big-market competition in the Sasaki sweepstakes, as the New York Yankees and New York Mets are also among other suitors for the Japanese right-handed pitcher. They both reportedly met with Sasaki already.

However, due to the bonus pool element given the international signing period, Sasaki's salary won't play a big role in his final decision since each team can offer a similar amount.

As a result, the Padres have a legitimate opportunity to sign him. Sasaki probably still wants to join a contending team, however. All four of the aforementioned clubs project to be postseason contenders during the 2025 season.

The Dodgers will surely be tempting for Sasaki, as they are fresh off a World Series win. With Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman leading the way, LA could be on the verge of developing a true dynasty. That is something that will surely appeal to him.

With that being said, Sasaki could decide to join a smaller market for his first contract as he adjusts to playing at the MLB level. If that is the route he chooses, San Diego's chances of signing him will only increase.

Padres remain a favorite to sign Roki Sasaki despite big-market competition

Sasaki, 23, is a right-handed pitcher with an extremely high-ceiling. MLB scouts believe Sasaki could emerge as one of the best pitchers in the league at some point down the road. While pitching in Japan in 2024, Sasaki recorded a stellar 2.35 ERA across 111 innings pitched.

He has pitched in Japan since 2021, turning in an incredible 2.02 ERA overall. It is clear that he is ready to join the big leagues. If Sasaki lives up to his potential, he could realistically change the entire dynamic of a team's starting rotation. He features a truly elite ceiling.

Of course, that remains a tall task. Playing in MLB comes with no shortage of pressure. With that being said, teams seemingly believe Sasaki can handle those difficulties because of his exposure in Japan already.