TATSUYA IMAI IS THE BREATH OF FRESH AIR I WASN'T PAYING ATTENTION TO....UNTIL NOW!

Another Japanese player has posted to sign with a MLB team, that's no surprise. In fact, when the news first broke that it was happening I shrugged it off and didn't even spend ten seconds thinking about it. After all, the Yankees have not had any recent success in attracting Japanese talent to the Bronx. It feels like it has been forever and the idea of trying these days just feels silly.

But is it silly? I'm not going to hold my breath just yet because Tatsuya Imai is still in the middle of a 45-day posting window and even though the Yankees are "in the mix" we have all heard that story before. The Yankees are always tied to every big name on the free agent market and potential trade bait players. That isn't going to change anytime soon, but something else just might....

Right now the Dodgers are the mecca of Japanese baseball players with Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki all on their roster. It's an assumption now that any Japanese stud is going to end up in Dodger blue, but Imai would rather play against them and beat them then suit up with them, read more HERE. 

It's refreshing to hear that, honestly. I was in that mindset of "oh he's just going to be a Dodger too" and didn't even entertain the idea of him playing anywhere else, let alone the Yankees. But he doesn't want to be one of them instead he would rather experience "winning against a team like that and becoming a world champion would be the most valuable thing in my life. If anything, I'd rather take them down."

And isn't that what we all want? The Dodgers have won two championships in a row. They are focused on being the next dynasty.... you know that thing we used to have. I'm focused on not only winning but also making sure they don't get that dynasty they are looking for.

 Imai sounds like he has the confidence on the field and off the field to do that. We've heard a lot about comraderies being important to Japanese stars coming over here. The Dodgers can certainly give that, but Imai doesn't want that. "If there were another Japanese player on the same team, I could just ask them about anything, right?" Imai said. "But that's actually not what I'm looking for. In a way, I want to experience that sense of survival. When I come face-to-face with cultural differences, I want to see how I can overcome them on my own -- that's part of what I'm excited about."

And reading that excites me, honestly. This guy sounds like a gamer. He's not afraid of making it in a new country and culture and figuring things out on his own. I think it is refreshing and actually makes me interested in him now. He sounds like the type of gamer we need on this team. 

So now he's piqued my interest at least. Even if the Yankees don't sign him, the fact that he wants to play against the Dodgers and beat them piques my interest. I wish the Yankees could target these players that have the confidence, attitude and skill....it could be a game changer.

So, I wasn't paying attention to Imai before.... but now I am. Even if we don't sign him, I will just be happy if he stays away from Los Angeles. But seriously, Hal Steinbrenner I know you are paying attention to this.....open up your wallet and go get him! 

--Jeana Bellezza-Ochoa

BYB Senior Managing Editor

Twitter: @nyprincessj

YANKEES CREEP INTO "FAVORITE" STATUS FOR TATSUYA IMAI

Yankees fans, rejoice—or at least pretend you know what’s going on. Word is the Bronx Bombers have emerged as one of the favorites to land three-time NPB All-Star Tatsuya Imai. And yes, relax, you’re not alone: most of us needed Google to figure out who this guy is, too.

Imai, a 27-year-old righty for the Saitama Seibu Lions, has been lighting up Japan since 2018. He’s made three All-Star teams, carries a career 58–45 record with a tight 3.15 ERA, and he’s officially being posted on November 19. After that, MLB teams will have 45 days to woo him—or he packs his bags and heads back to Japan.

MLB Network’s David Vassegh has already tossed the Yankees’ name into the rumor tornado, grouping them with the Phillies, Blue Jays, Mets, and Padres. Apparently, according to Vassegh’s “Japanese friends”—his words, not mine—the Yankees are right in the thick of it.

The competition makes sense: all these teams desperately need arms for 2026 and beyond. And Imai’s arsenal is the type that front offices drool over. We’re talking a fastball up to 99, a biting slider, and a changeup that makes hitters look like they forgot their glasses. Control used to be an issue, but he’s sharpened that up—so much so that he just posted a 1.92 ERA and 0.89 WHIP. Not bad… though, let’s be real, NPB hitters aren’t exactly the same beasts lurking in MLB lineups.

The elephant in the room? Kei Igawa PTSD...for me at least. Big, glowing, neon PTSD. Yankee fans don’t need another reminder that not every Japanese pitcher is the next Tanaka; sometimes you get the guy who makes you dive behind the couch every fifth day.

Meanwhile, the Yankees are watching the Dodgers printing money, collecting Japanese stars like they’re Pokémon cards—Ohtani, Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki—and they seem to think they can just… copy-paste that blueprint. Here’s the catch: the Dodgers actually spend money. The Yankees? They talk about spending money and then they get a guy like Frankie Montas. Totally different.

Stay tuned. This could get interesting. Or it could get very, very Yankee. We shall see.

ROKI SASAKI CRUSHED BY KYLE TEEL!

Simulation or not, that was a nuke by Kyle Teel. I thought Roki Sasaki was a phenom? Whatever, that's the Dodgers problem now. In their quest to be glutton, let them figure it out.

Let me set the stage. The Dodgers, baseball’s resident dragon guarding a hoard of talent, might’ve finally tripped over their own pile of gold. After spending yet another offseason treating the league like their personal Costco, stocking up on all the best players (because, you know, why not?), they rolled out their shiny new import, Roki Sasaki, and, uh, things didn’t go exactly as planned.

It was Tuesday morning, and while most of us were still nursing our coffees, Sasaki was busy serving up a wake-up call to Dodgers fans everywhere. Facing the White Sox in what the PR folks called a "hybrid B-game" (whatever that means), Sasaki stepped onto the mound with all the hype of a blockbuster sequel. This is the guy MLB Pipeline ranked No. 1 overall, the one with a fastball that supposedly whispers sweet nothings to the radar gun.

But on his second pitch, Kyle Teel—ranked a measly No. 32, practically a peasant in prospect terms—took that high-and-mighty fastball and sent it soaring. Yep, Teel went yard. Against Roki Sasaki. The Dodgers’ newest crown jewel got his first taste of Major League power, and something tells me it wasn’t quite what he was expecting.

 

I mean, this isn’t Japan, Roki. Here, there are guys like Teel who’ll jump all over you—and then there are guys even better than Teel, ready to make you wish you’d stayed on the other side of the Pacific. I get it, though. Moving from NPB to MLB is no small leap. But when your new team is already measuring you for a Hall of Fame jacket, a little bit of humility might be in order.

Now, in fairness, Sasaki did recover after that early embarrassment. He coaxed a few grounders—though, considering there were no fielders behind him, I’m not sure what that proves. He even managed one swinging strikeout, which, if we’re grading on a curve for spring training, maybe earns him a gold star. But for all the hype, one would think Sasaki might’ve shown a little more.

Because, listen, Rotoballer couldn’t have sold Sasaki harder if they’d been on commission:

"Sasaki's fastball can touch triple digits, but he also offers a devastating splitter in the 88-90 mph that coaxes eye-popping whiff rates. The 23-year-old has ace-like potential and the transition to MLB should not be too challenging."

Ace-like potential, they say. Not too challenging, they say. And yet, here we are, talking about how Kyle Teel—who, last I checked, wasn’t exactly on MVP watch—sent one over the wall. Maybe Sasaki just had a bad day. Maybe he’s still adjusting. Or maybe, just maybe, the Dodgers got a little too comfortable sipping their own Kool-Aid.

But hey, it’s spring training, right? It’s the time of year when veterans look rusty, prospects swing out of their shoes, and half the guys on the field are wearing numbers higher than the speed limit. Maybe Sasaki will find his groove once the games count. Maybe he’ll make us all eat our words and turn into the ace everyone predicted.

And as for Teel? Well, if he can keep this up, he might just become every Dodgers hater’s new favorite player. There’s nothing quite like watching a team that collects All-Stars like Pokémon cards get humbled by an underdog.

One thing’s for sure: This season just got a whole lot more interesting. If Tuesday’s blast was a sign of things to come, I’ll be the first in line with popcorn. Go ahead, Sasaki—show us what you’ve got. And Teel? Keep hitting nukes, kid. It’s about time someone reminded the Dodgers that the game still has to be played on the field.

HUGE INTERNATIONAL SIGNING THE YANKEES LOVE & US FANS WILL TOO

The Yankees continue to make notable moves on the international front, and for fans, that’s more than enough to feel optimistic about this offseason. Even without Roki Sasaki in the mix, the team is building for the future—and things are looking bright. As a Yankees fan, I can confidently say I’m happy again.

The latest buzz comes from NJ.com and Max Goodman, among others, reporting that the Yankees have signed 16-year-old shortstop Manny Cedeño from the Dominican Republic. The deal is reportedly worth $2.5 million, making Cedeño a key addition to the organization. Ranked as the top player in his class and the second-youngest player on the 2025 Top 50 list, Cedeño is already turning heads.

MLB Pipeline describes his potential in glowing terms:

"There is a ton of bat speed to dream on from Cedeno’s balanced and smooth right-handed swing. He does an excellent job of shifting his weight in the box to tap into power that is just beginning to emerge. His plus athleticism aids him in the box as he displays quick hands with almost no stiffness to his approach. If the pop begins to come consistently, Cedeno could be a fast riser through an organization’s ranks."

This signing adds to a growing list of high-profile international prospects in the Yankees’ pipeline. Jasson Domínguez, one of the most talked-about prospects in recent memory, signed for $5.1 million out of the Dominican Republic in 2019. Roderick Arias followed as the Yankees’ top international signing in 2022 with a $4 million deal, and he’s now ranked as the team’s No. 4 prospect. The organization’s commitment to international scouting and development is clearly paying off.

Honestly, I never paid much attention to the Yankees’ international efforts until now, but seeing the talent they’ve brought in is exciting. It’s great to know that even behind the scenes, the team is laying the groundwork for future success. For Yankees fans, that’s something to celebrate.

DODGERS SIGN YET ANOTHER RELIABLE ARM FOR THEIR ALREADY STELLAR TEAM

The Los Angeles Dodgers are at it again, like that one kid in your neighborhood Monopoly game who buys every property, throws down hotels, and then has the audacity to shrug when everyone else is bankrupt. This offseason, they're not just trying to win—they’re trying to assemble the Avengers of MLB. And sure, if it’s within the rules, there’s technically nothing wrong with it. But let’s be real: it’s absolutely infuriating.

Their latest moves? Signing lefty ace Tanner Scott for a cool four years and $72 million, and following that up by snagging Kirby Yates, one of 2024’s best relievers. Because, apparently, having a bullpen that’s merely excellent wasn’t enough. Oh, and don’t forget the rest of their historic offseason shopping spree: Roki Sasaki, Blake Snell, Teoscar Hernández (re-signed), Michael Conforto, Hyeseong Kim, and Blake Treinen (also re-signed). At this point, the only thing missing is Shohei Ohtani pitching one inning while playing center field in the next.

But let’s focus on Sasaki for a second—because that one has rival execs lighting up group chats with conspiracy theories. The whispers are deafening: was there a pre-existing deal between Sasaki and the Dodgers? Was MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred asleep at the wheel? Rival teams are livid, and frankly, they’ve got a point. Sasaki’s decision supposedly “came down” to the Dodgers, Padres, and Blue Jays, but everyone with a pulse knew this was ending in Dodger blue. And then, just hours after signing Sasaki, they drop the Tanner Scott deal. Coincidence? Yeah, and I’m a Cy Young contender.

Meanwhile, the Dodgers’ rotation now looks like it was assembled in a video game, their bullpen is untouchable, and the rest of the league is left trying to figure out how to even compete. It’s like the rich kid showed up to the sandlot with a golden bat and hired a personal trainer just to flex on everyone else.

The Dodgers are ruining baseball. Sure, they’re technically playing by the rules, but when the rules let you stockpile talent like you’re hoarding limited-edition sneakers, maybe it’s time for a rulebook rewrite. Until then, the rest of us will be here, rolling our eyes, praying for an underdog miracle, and watching the Dodgers parade their All-Star roster like a kid showing off his Pokémon card collection. It’s getting old, L.A. Seriously.

THE DODGERS ANDREW FRIEDMAN HAS SOME EXPLAINING TO DO

Suspicious, Suspicious, Suspicious!

OK, let’s get this out of the way first: I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I actually agree with Buster Olney. Yeah, that Buster Olney. Wow. But hey, even a broken clock is right twice a day, and when it comes to the Dodgers’ acquisition of Japanese phenom Roki Sasaki, Olney’s skepticism is absolutely spot on.

Here’s the tea: Sasaki entered the MLB posting system in January, and all the usual suspects lined up like kids at a candy store. Yankees, Mets, Blue Jays, Padres, Rangers, Giants, Cubs—and, of course, the Dodgers. It was the ultimate bidding war… or was it? Because by January 17, Sasaki magically landed in Los Angeles with a $6.5 million posting bonus.

Suspicious? You bet.

While MLB swears up and down that their investigation found “no evidence of impropriety,” pretty much everyone else in the league is screaming foul. Even Olney didn’t mince words:

“They don’t believe it was ever on the up and up. There’s so many people who believe this was a done deal ahead of time.”

But wait, it gets better (or worse, depending on your team). During the evaluation process, Sasaki’s camp made a bizarre request: teams were asked to analyze his fastball velocity—down to 96.9 mph, gasp!—and present detailed plans for restoring and enhancing it. Naturally, organizations poured massive amounts of time, money, and expertise into crafting high-level pitching strategies.

And where did all that proprietary data end up? Oh, just in the hands of the Dodgers.

“All that information… was taped in this presentation the teams were doing,” Olney continued. “And then he chose the Dodgers, which means all these teams basically handed over proprietary information to Sasaki and the Dodgers.”

Let’s be real here: if you’re not mad about this, you’re probably Andrew Friedman or Sasaki’s agent Joel Wolfe. Rival executives are fuming, and for good reason. All those hours, all that effort—wasted. MLB can investigate all it wants, but the whispers aren’t going away. Manfred blew another one.

And the best part? Even the final decision “came down” to three teams—Dodgers, Padres, and Blue Jays—people still think the whole thing was a foregone conclusion.

So yeah, while MLB and the Dodgers might want us to believe everything’s squeaky clean, the rest of the league isn’t buying it. And honestly? Neither am I.

This smells fishier than a sushi platter at Dodger Stadium. No, that's just Friedman's crotch.  

Stay tuned on this one... this is a big deal.

TEAMS ARE CLOSING IN ON VERDUGO

Remember the spark Alex Verdugo brought to the Yankees early on? We all loved it! His energy was electric, the kind of vibe you wish you could bottle up. But let’s be honest, the flame kind of fizzled as the season went on... we all saw it live. Still, Verdugo remains a solid player with loads to prove. If you haven’t already, check out our piece I LOVE THE BALLS ON ALEX VERDUGO on Bleeding Yankee Blue. It's a must-read!

Now, here’s the juicy part: a couple of teams are really starting to sniff around Verdugo, eager to bring his spark to their roster.

The San Diego Padres are predicted to be in the mix for Verdugo. After a somewhat disappointing offseason, missing out on stars like Roki Sasaki and Tanner Scott (ouch), they’re keen to make some moves. Losing out to their NL West rivals, the Los Angeles Dodgers, stings a bit, doesn’t it? I still think the Dodgers did something shady. Maybe that's just me.

The Padres are in a bit of a belt-tightening phase, saying “no thanks” to Jurickson Profar. That leaves some space in their outfield, and Verdugo could be the perfect fit. An affordable left-handed bat? Yes, please!

But hold up—the Pirates might just be the best fit for Verdugo. Pittsburgh is brewing something interesting with Andrew McCutchen’s return, and Verdugo could be the cherry on top. He’s still young, has a decent postseason resume, and won’t break the bank. A one-year deal could be just what the Pirates need and exactly what Verdugo wants to prove his worth.

So, stay tuned—wherever Verdugo lands, he’s sure to bring the energy we all know and appreciate.

QUESTIONS SURROUND THE DODGERS & ROKI SASAKI

I couldn’t believe it when I saw the news. I found it strange for many reasons, but knowing what the Dodgers already have, and now they had Roki Sasaki, it was like that 3 headed monster from the old Godzilla series...Ghidorah.

From Roki Sasaki they quickly signed reliever Tanner Scott. I mean how good are the Dodgers going to be? And how much money do they have? This isn’t just another big move—it’s yet another chapter in what has become an almost suspiciously successful saga for the Dodgers. Let’s not forget they landed Shohei Ohtani just last year. Now, reports are there are whispers of an investigation are gaining momentum, and frankly, it’s not hard to see why.

Jim Bowden, The Athletic's MLB insider and a former executive, has already sounded the alarm. He suspects that the New York Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays, and New York Mets are gearing up to call for an inquiry into the Andrew Friedman and the Dodgers' latest acquisition of Roki Sasaki. On the Foul Territory podcast, Bowden didn’t mince words: “I think you’re going to find that multiple teams are going to ask the commissioner’s office to investigate this particular signing. Several front offices believe there was a precut deal between the Dodgers and Roki Sasaki before the negotiation window even opened.”

If it looks like a duck and quacks like a duck, it’s probably a duck. The timing and nature of this Sasaki signing make it hard to dismiss the notion of a pre-arranged deal. Sasaki's camp has denied it, but the denials themselves are almost too strong, almost too rehearsed. As Bowden elaborated that the denials were so strong that it made you scratch your head. We were told "that a small market" would be more suitable for Sasaki, given the issues he faced with the media in Japan. Endorsements were cited as a significant factor, and Los Angeles was supposedly a poor fit due to the looming presence of Ohtani and Yamamoto. Yet, here we are, with all signs pointing toward a possible precut agreement.

Consider the logic. Sasaki, a pitcher with a reputation for being media-shy, was expected to gravitate toward a smaller market where he wouldn’t have to endure the intense spotlight that comes with playing in a big city like Los Angeles. On top of that, the Dodgers already have Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, two towering figures in baseball. The narrative was that Sasaki wouldn’t want to play in their shadow, especially in a market as scrutinized as LA. And yet, the Dodgers pulled it off.

Conveniently, all those “reasons” for Sasaki to avoid LA suddenly don’t seem to matter.

This isn’t the first time the Dodgers have seemingly defied expectations in the free-agent market. Their ability to land star players almost effortlessly has raised eyebrows before, but this time, it’s pushing rival teams over the edge. There’s a sense that the rules might have been bent, or worse, outright broken.

The league’s competitive balance is at stake. If the Dodgers are indeed engaging in backdoor deals, it’s not just about unfairly bolstering their roster—it’s about eroding trust in the system that’s supposed to give every team a fair shot at signing top talent. The potential investigation could uncover practices that might force the MLB to rethink how it governs free-agent negotiations.  But much like the Astros cheating scandal, Rob Manfred will no doubt see no wrongdoing and force everyone to move on, and that is how it will all go down.

It’s no wonder teams like the Yankees, Blue Jays, and Mets are reportedly considering pushing for an investigation in my opinion. The Dodgers have consistently outmaneuvered them, and this latest series of signings just feel weird. If the commissioner’s office does launch an inquiry, it could reshape the landscape of MLB free agency for years to come. But believe me, Manfred would rather not disturb his kingdom and so nothing will happen... but I am suspicious.

For now, the Dodgers bask in their latest triumph, but the shadow of suspicion looms large. The baseball world waits to see if this house of cards will come tumbling down, exposing the machinations that may have fueled their meteoric rise. 

One thing’s certain—I back Bowden on this one. I believe this story is far from over.

HOG DODGERS BUY ANOTHER TOP PITCHER

The Los Angeles Dodgers have agreed to terms with free agent closer Tanner Scott on a four-year, $72 million deal, according to Jeff Passan. 

Scott, who was traded to the Padres at the deadline, posted a 1.75 ERA and 2.92 FIP between the two clubs. The Dodgers reportedly had Scott as one of their top targets this offseason.

Bob Nightengale mentions that the Boston Red Sox offered Scott more years at a higher average annual value than the Dodgers, but he chose LA instead. Scott's deal includes a $20 million signing bonus and $21 million in deferred payments, a structure the Dodgers have employed in several deals this offseason, according to a source familiar with the situation.

The addition of Scott likely marks the conclusion of another busy offseason for the reigning World Series champions. Before signing Scott, the Dodgers added Blake Snell, one of the top starters on the market; re-signed Teoscar Hernandez; signed Michael Conforto to solidify the corner outfield; brought in Korean second baseman Hyeseong Kim, extended Tommy Edman; and, in one of the off-season's most significant moves, attracted phenom Roki Sasaki.

While the Yankees were once considered the "Evil Empire" for their lavish spending, the current state of the Dodgers' financial muscle raises eyebrows in my opinion. The sheer amount of money they can spend on players seems unbelievably unbalanced compared to the rest of Major League Baseball. It's almost a monopoly. It's almost sickening. It's almost curious how it's being managed.

In fact, the Dodgers' financial maneuvers could be considered suspicious in my eyes as they continue to outbid and outmaneuver other teams. Their ability to consistently secure top talent is both impressive and perplexing, leading some to question how they manage their finances. It's nuts.

As you know, Tanner Scott was loosely connected to the Yankees, with Bleeding Yankee Blue recently writing about him in an article titled MOMENTUM COULD BE BUILDING ON TANNER SCOTT. However, just hours later, reports surfaced that the Yankees were more focused on Andrew Chafin than on Scott. 

Whatever the case, the Dodgers' dominance in the market is ridiculous. Wow.

THE DODGERS ARE THE NEW EVIL EMPIRE? NOT SO FAST

First, they signed Roki Sasaki. Then came Blake Snell. Next, they brought back Teoscar Hernández. And just when you thought they were done, they went and signed Hyeseong Kim—prompting most fans to Google "Who is Hyeseong Kim?" only to get mad when they realized he was now a Dodger. The reaction across the league? "This is over. It's unfair. One team shouldn't be allowed to sign all the stars!"

If you’re a Yankees fan, this panic should feel eerily familiar. Sound like 1998 to you? The 2024 Dodgers might look like the ’98 Yankees, but they’ve got a bit of the ‘96 Braves in them too—those Braves who boasted a rotation that could strike fear into anyone: Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, and John Smoltz. A trio so good, they seemed invincible in a short series. Well, until they weren’t. The Yankees knocked them off. Repeatedly.

The '98 Yankees were a different beast altogether, one of the greatest teams ever assembled. With 114 wins in the regular season and a postseason that ended with them at a ridiculous 125-50 record, they were a juggernaut. Their ERA? Sixth best in baseball. Their runs scored. League-leading. This wasn’t just a team—it was a finely-tuned, record-smashing machine.

Now, back to the Dodgers. Their roster? It’s a veritable who’s who of baseball talent. Their rotation? Strong enough that their sixth starter might be better than some teams’ aces. Their payroll? The kind of money that makes other teams weep. But before you throw in the towel, remember this: baseball is wonderfully, maddeningly unpredictable.

The 1996-2000 Yankees were a masterclass in smart team building. They built up to it by nailing their drafts, grabbing Derek Jeter early and finding gems like Jorge Posada and Andy Pettitte in the later rounds. They scoured the globe for hidden talent, unearthing Mariano Rivera, and pulled off clever trades like the one that brought Paul O’Neill to the Bronx. Scott Brosius was plucked off the A's bench—no one thought that move was season-defining, but it was.

Clemens joining the squad in 1999 as the moment the Yankees became the baseball equivalent of a Death Star. 

By the early 2000s, the Yankees shifted from precision to sheer accumulation. Jason Giambi.

But back to 1996 for a second, the Yankee build up to their run.  The 1996 Braves were untouchable—until they weren’t. The 2003 Yankees were packed with talent, but they fell to the plucky, wildcard Marlins. Even the Dodgers, for all their might, are vulnerable. Just like the Braves were dethroned by a scrappy, cobbled-together Yankees team in '96, the Dodgers can be beaten.

Yes, the Dodgers have it all: chemistry, depth, star power, and enough financial firepower to outbid anyone. But so did the ’96 Braves. And we all know how that story ended. The season’s not over until the final out. And in baseball, any team can have its Cinderella moment.

So go ahead, be mad at the Dodgers for doing what every team dreams of—stockpiling stars like it's a Black Friday sale. But keep rooting for your team. Because this is baseball, and in baseball, anything can happen. Just ask the ’96 Braves. Or the 2003 Yankees or even the 2001 Yanks. Sometimes, the Goliaths fall. And that’s what keeps the game so exhilarating.

By the way, shout out to Yanks go Yard for keeping us all thinking about stuff like this. Good Article.

--Alvin Izzo
BYB Yankee History Contributor

HOG DODGERS BAG ANOTHER JAPANESE PHENOM

Well, well, well. It seems the Los Angeles Dodgers have done it again. Just when you thought they couldn’t possibly stuff any more Japanese talent into their overflowing roster, they’ve gone and snatched up Roki Sasaki, the 23-year-old Japanese pitching sensation whose fastball casually cruises past 100 mph. Yep, the Dodgers are basically the piggy bank of MLB, hoarding all the shiny coins, and now they’ve added Sasaki to their already sparkling collection. They're hog slobs.

In a move that surprised absolutely no one, Sasaki took to Instagram to announce his intentions to sign with you guessed it the World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers. Sorry, Yankees, Marlins, Red Sox – you guys never really had a shot. The Dodgers, sitting pretty on the West Coast, holding all the cards, are now the undisputed kings of MLB.

Remember those good old days when the Yankees and Red Sox had that heated rivalry, battling it out for the likes of Hideki Matsui, Daisuke Matsuzaka, and Masahiro Tanaka? Yeah, that’s ancient history. Back then, the East Coast was all the rage. Now? It’s clear as day – the Dodgers are the new dynasty, and the East Coast teams are left picking up the scraps.

Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and now Roki Sasaki – it’s like the Dodgers have a direct line to Japan, or maybe a magnet that pulls in every top-tier Japanese pitcher. What’s that? San Diego Padres and Toronto Blue Jays were also in the mix? Cute. But let's be honest, they were just there to fill out the roster of potential suitors.

Sasaki’s Instagram post was all humble gratitude, thanking his supporters and expressing his excitement about wearing the Dodgers uniform. He called it a tough decision, but let’s face it, how tough could it really be when the Dodgers come knocking? It's LA, baby! Dammit!

And let’s not forget all that agent chatter about small-market teams – yeah, that clearly went straight out the window. LA is massive, much like NY, but with better weather and fewer existential crises about whether the team will make it past the postseason.

So here we are, with Sasaki joining Ohtani and the gang, setting up the Dodgers for even more domination. They came to win, and they’re here to win for a long, long time. The rest of the league? Well, you might want to start scouting the next generation of international talent, because the Dodgers are playing on a whole different level.

Good for Roki. Good for the Dodgers. But let's be clear, the Yankees have done terrific things this offseason, so it's time to focus on them now that this guy went west.  

Let's go Yanks! I smell a World Series rematch!

ROKI SASAKI IS NARROWING HIS LIST OF TEAMS

 And the Yankees don't seem to have a shot.

Well, folks, if you were holding out hope that Roki Sasaki, the dazzling 23-year-old Japanese pitching sensation, would don a San Francisco Giants uniform, we’ve got some news for you—and it’s not great if you’re a Giants fan. Giants general manager Zack Minasian confirmed on Monday that Sasaki won’t be heading to the Bay Area. So, scratch them off the list!

But there is more; Mets, Yankees, Giants, Rangers, and Cubs are reportedly out too. 

It’s a rough day for us Yankees fans if true.  Will Sammon at The Athletic reported Monday that the Mets were out, and then Jack Curry of YES Network delivered the blow that the Yankees have been informed they're out on Sasaki too. 

Ronald Blum of the Associated Press confirmed that both the Yankees and Rangers are out of the running and so where does that leave Sasaki? The Dodgers, Padres, and Blue Jays appear to be the finalists to sign the Japanese right-hander according to reports. Sasaki has to sign by January 23. It's tough to see the Yankees miss out, especially with the competition heating up.

The Dodgers have long been seen as a frontrunner—because, well, they’re the Dodgers, and they love collecting star players. And the Padres are making serious noise in their pursuit of Sasaki too.

Stay tuned as the Sasaki saga continues to unfold, and maybe next time, we’ll have a bit more to chew on. Until then, keep dreaming about where this young phenom will land!

ROKI SASAKI'S WILD RIDE

Buckle up, folks, because speculation season is in full swing, and we're diving headfirst into the Roki Sasaki frenzy. With Sasaki’s signing deadline looming Thursday, January 23, it's a sprint to the finish. According to Ken Rosenthal, the New York Yankees are one of the frontrunners in this high-stakes race. But wait, the Dodgers are hot on their heels, too. So, what's the deal? And why is this all so wonderfully chaotic?

First, let’s get one thing straight: speculation is a wild, unpredictable beast, and you're about to find out just how crazy it can get by reading this post. Trust me, it’s worth the ride.

The Yankees' Case for Sasaki

Let’s start with the good news. The Bombers are being touted as a top contender for Sasaki, and honestly, why wouldn’t they be? The allure of pinstripes, the storied franchise, the bright lights of New York City—it’s all very enticing. Chris McMonigle of WFAN can’t help but feel the excitement bubbling up. “I’m gonna let my hopes up in real fear of them getting let down,” he says. “I’m starting to get excited about Roki Sasaki being a Yankee.”

And he's got good reason to be optimistic. The Yankees' pitching staff is already formidable, and adding Sasaki’s electric arm to the mix would only further cement their top-tier status. Plus, the Yankees know how to roll out the red carpet for international stars.

Dodgers Still in the Mix

Of course, the Dodgers aren’t just standing idly by. They've had their eye on Sasaki for a while now, and you can bet they’re pulling out all the stops to bring him to Los Angeles. Sasaki’s desire to prove himself against MLB’s best has driven him to make the jump two years early, sacrificing a bigger payday to do so. That’s dedication, and it’s no wonder teams like the Dodgers are salivating at the thought of signing him.

A Small Market Surprise?

But hold up—could a small market swoop in and steal the show? Sasaki’s agent, Joel Wolfe, has hinted that a smaller market might be ideal for his client, primarily to avoid the immense pressure that comes with playing in a spotlight-heavy city like New York or Los Angeles. Enter the Pittsburgh Pirates. Yep, you read that right. The Pirates have quietly built a solid reputation for developing pitchers. Look at Paul Skenes and Jared Jones and the addition of Sasaki could be a game-changer for their franchise. That has been reports that the Pirates are the dark horse in all of this.  It will be interesting.

The Reality Check

Now, let’s get real for a second. While it’s fun to speculate, the only people who truly know what’s going on are Sasaki and Wolfe. So, as much as we’d love to predict the future, we’re all just along for the ride. But isn’t that what makes this whole thing so exciting?

In the end, whether Sasaki ends up in New York, Los Angeles, or even Pittsburgh, one thing’s for sure: this saga is far from over. 

So, stay tuned, and keep those hopes cautiously high.

YANKEES "CONFIDENT" IN SASAKI PURSUIT

Ken Rosenthal has declared the New York Yankees as one of the top contenders in the Roki Sasaki sweepstakes, and Yankees fans are buzzing like a stadium full of vuvuzelas. "...it certainly seems like the teams that we've heard mentioned—the Dodgers, the Mets, the Yankees, the Padres, the Rangers, and some others—those are the obvious front-runners based on simply the fact that they have met with Sasaki and other teams have not," Rosenthal said, fanning the flames of speculation like a tabloid with a juicy rumor.

For Yankees supporters, this news is like a walk-off home run in the bottom of the ninth—or better yet, like finding an extra slice of pizza in the box. However, it doesn't fully capture how confident the Yankees' front office is feeling about landing the Japanese sensation. Bryan Hoch reports that the Yanks are riding a wave of optimism, and it's not just from their morning coffee.

"The Yankees thought they had realistic shots at Shohei Ohtani and Yamamoto too," Hoch noted. "But I think that if there is not a geographical preference here... if that's not in play, the Yankees feel like they've put together a solid proposal and have really laid it out."

The Bronx Bombers believe they have a winning hand. They've rolled out the red carpet for Sasaki, complete with pinstripe patterns and maybe even a hot dog stand or two. "They have a history of Japanese players who have come to the Yankees and enjoyed their time there, becoming really recognizable stars," Hoch added. "New York, if you want to be in a major market, that might be the place for you."

It's a high-stakes game, and the Yankees are all in. Will Sasaki don the famous pinstripes? Only time will tell, but the excitement in the air is undeniable—like the smell of garlic fries at Yankee Stadium.

JIM BOWDEN KNOWS WHERE ROKI SASAKI'S SIGNING

Jim Bowden just couldn’t help himself. 

Bowden went there. Bowden went all in like he’s playing poker with Monopoly money and loving every second of it. While other baseball insiders are stumbling around like they’ve forgotten how to tie their cleats, desperately trying to get the latest scoop on Roki Sasaki, Bowden is out here throwing fastballs of his own. And boy, did he just throw a heater with his latest prediction about Sasaki joining the Yankees. It’s so aggressive, it’s almost like Bowden's trying to sign him himself.

Bowden, the maestro of bold takes over at The Athletic, is out here waving off the Dodgers like they’re yesterday’s news. In Bowden’s world, Sasaki is either headed to the Yankees or the Padres. Why? Well, here’s the gem of logic Bowden blessed us with: "His favorite player growing up was Masahiro Tanaka, which would lead me to guess he was at least somewhat of a Yankees fan. He considers Yu Darvish a godfather-type influence, and the Padres veteran mentored Sasaki during Japan’s championship run in the 2023 World Baseball Classic. Therefore, for no other reason, I’ll predict he signs with either the Yankees or San Diego."

Bowden’s putting his chips on the table, all because Sasaki looked up to Tanaka and has a bromance with Darvish. That’s it. That’s the nugget. Sure, it sounds great in a “baseball is just a big buddy movie” kind of way, but come on, Jim! Signing contracts isn’t exactly like picking your best man for a wedding.

Yes, Tanaka was Sasaki’s childhood hero, clocking in 78 wins during his Yankees days. And Darvish? He had a decent run with the Padres in 2024, with a 7-3 record and a 3.31 ERA, despite only pitching 81.2 innings. But are those the deciding factors here? It’s like saying you picked your college because they have a great mascot.

Bowden’s out here making contract negotiations sound as easy as ordering off a fast-food menu, but we all know it’s a tad more complicated than that. Is it fun to imagine Sasaki signing with the Yankees or Padres? Absolutely. Is it likely? Well, that’s another story. But hey, Bowden’s having a blast, and we’re all just along for the ride. 

Stay tuned—there’s more drama to unfold, and Bowden will surely be right in the thick of it, stirring the pot.

SASAKI SWEEPSTAKE TEAMS GETTING MORE EXCLUSIVE...

Kind of.

Jim Bowden of The Athletic claims the Yankees are one of the main teams in the hunt for Rōki Sasaki, along with the Dodgers, Padres, Cubs, Rangers, Mets, and maybe the Giants. Classic Bowden move—throw half the league at the wall and see what sticks. God love him.  Don’t get me wrong, Jim’s a good baseball guy, but let’s not confuse him with Nostradamus. Does he really know where Sasaki’s headed? Doubtful. But hey, the Yankees are in the conversation, and that’s good enough for now. In reality, you didn't need me to tell you that, just Google it.

Look, Rōki Sasaki isn’t your run-of-the-mill international signing. He’s a once-in-a-generation talent—a flamethrower who could make your team a contender or your rivals weep. Yankees fans are clinging to the fact that Sasaki grew up idolizing Masahiro Tanaka. At least I am and I know it means nothing. I mean, does that really mean Tanaka’s sliding into Sasaki’s DMs with pep talks? Maybe. Or maybe Tanaka’s just living his life while I wildly speculate.

The Yankees have stiff competition, though, and let’s be honest: this isn’t 2009 when the team could just back up a Brinks truck.  Sasaki’s tied up in international bonus pool rules and Joel Wolfe, Sasaki’s agent, says market size doesn’t matter, so there goes that Bronx swagger edge and even the Mets.

But is the Big Apple too big? Wolfe recently stirred the pot, telling SportsNet New York, “A small- or mid-market team might be more beneficial for [Sasaki], as a way to start his MLB career in a softer environment.” Okay, Joel, we see you. Basically, Sasaki might not want to deal with New York’s tabloid circus and high-pressure fans right out of the gate. Fair enough—but are we really supposed to believe he wants to start his career in, like, Milwaukee?

Even if Sasaki does have a soft spot for Tanaka and pinstripes, the Yankees are up against some heavy hitters. The Dodgers, Padres, and Mets have plenty of appeal to make things interesting. But let’s be real: until Sasaki’s holding up a jersey at a press conference, this is all just a fever dream and Jim Bowden knows it... Damn you Jim!

So, Yankees fans, keep your cool. It’s fun to imagine Sasaki in pinstripes, but don’t let Jim Bowden’s musings have you picking out parade routes just yet. And Jim? Thanks for the speculation—it’s great for the clicks.  

Love ya!

ROKI SASAKI'S AGENT SPILLS THE TEA. DECISION LOOMING.

The baseball world is buzzing as Japanese phenom Roki Sasaki is in the driver’s seat of his MLB journey. With an impressive 20 teams vying for his talents, the pitcher’s agent, Scott Wolfe, dropped some important info about what’s next for Sasaki and his highly anticipated decision.

Here’s the scoop: Sasaki isn’t just another prospect being wooed—he’s the captain of his own ship. Wolfe revealed that Sasaki has asked for players from interested teams to sit out the recruitment process. Yep, no star-studded Zoom calls or locker room tours for this guy. It’s all about the pitching...pun intended.

So far, 20 teams have made their case to land the young ace, but the field is about to shrink. Sasaki is expected to start cutting down his options soon, with possible second meetings for the lucky finalists. His top priority? Teams with killer development programs. Translation: franchises that know how to take a talent like Sasaki and turn him into the superstar he’s destined to be.

Projections for Sasaki’s deal hover around four years and $10 million. That feels modest for the phenom. And all this talk reminds me of the cautionary tale of Kei Igawa. Remember when the Yankees were eyeing Daisuke Matsuzaka back in the day, only for the Red Sox to snag him? The Yanks ended up with Igawa instead, and, well...let’s just say it didn’t go as planned.

Back then, the Red Sox dropped a jaw-dropping $51 million just for the chance to negotiate with Matsuzaka. Meanwhile, Yankees GM Brian Cashman landed Igawa, a “back-of-the-rotation starter” and later a “potential middle reliever”. Igawa, sadly, didn’t live up to even those tempered hopes.

But Sasaki? He’s a whole different story. This time for the Yankees and a Japanese pitcher it’s about writing a new chapter.

For teams like the Yankees, Mets, Dodgers, and other contenders, patience is the name of the game. Wolfe hinted that a decision might not come until January 23. That’s right—there’s still time for fans to speculate, dream, and maybe even stress a little.

So, buckle up. The Roki Sasaki saga is just heating up, and whether he ends up in pinstripes, blue and orange, or somewhere else entirely, one thing’s for sure: this young pitcher is a game-changer in the making.

Stay tuned.

SASAKI & BURNES HAVE BOTH MET WITH A WEST COAST TEAM

What does that mean for the Yankees? I'm not sure yet.

The San Francisco Giants are quietly making waves this offseason, and honestly, are we surprised? This is a team that knows how to swing for the fences when it comes to signing marquee talent. Their pursuit of Corbin Burnes is heating up, and now—hold onto your hats—Roki Sasaki might just be in their sights too. Can you imagine the buzz if they pull this off? Let’s break it down from what we know.

First up, Corbin Burnes. The Giants are still firmly in the race to snag the Orioles ace, with only the Toronto Blue Jays and Boston Red Sox standing in their way, according to Newsweek. The Giants are the frontrunners allegedly, and for good reason. They've already bolstered their roster with the addition of Willy Adames, and landing Burnes would be like putting a cherry on top of the sundae. The goal? Knock the Dodgers off their NL West perch—and boy, would Burnes help them do just that.

Now, let’s talk about Roki Sasaki, Japan’s 23-year-old pitching phenom. Initially, the Giants weren’t seen as major players in the Sasaki sweepstakes. After all, teams like the Dodgers and Yankees are all over it. But according to Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle, the Giants have actually met with Sasaki and his team. Yes, you read that right—they’re in the room where it happens, and not every team can say that.

Here’s the catch: Sasaki, due to his age, won’t be signing one of those jaw-dropping megadeals that Yoshinobu Yamamoto scored with the Dodgers. Still, a solid deal is very much in the cards, and for San Francisco, this is less about money and more about the pitch. They’ll need to sell him on the team’s vision, the city’s charm, and—let’s be real—a chance to be a part of baseball history.

But don't forget, our Yankees are making their play for Sasaki too, but when it comes to Burnes? Crickets. The Bombers haven’t even entered the Burnes chat. Meanwhile, the Giants are pushing all their chips to the center of the table. Burnes and Sasaki in San Francisco? That’s not just a pipe dream—it’s a potential game-changer especially if they want to compete against the Dodgers, or even Padres.

The Giants are no slouch when it comes to making power moves. If they land even one of these two stars, it’s a win for them. If they get both?  San Francisco is ready to roar.

I still have hope when it comes to my Yankees, however. I feel good about their chances in getting Sasaki.

Stay tuned.

LEGIT BASEBALL INSIDER FEELS GOOD ABOUT HIS PREDICTION FOR ROKI SASAKI

Predicting where Japanese pitching sensation Roki Sasaki will end up in Major League Baseball is like predicting the weather in April: a mix of guesswork, hope, and squinting at some charts. But ESPN’s David Schoenfield has been among the boldest to venture a forecast. Granted, even Schoenfield admits, “It’s just guessing at this point.”

The Yankees and Mets are both leaning hard into their Big Apple charm to woo Sasaki to the East Coast. Meanwhile, West Coast teams seem to have the natural edge, thanks to their geographical closeness to Japan and the allure of fewer time zones to traverse. The Dodgers, Padres, and perhaps even a surprise contender all remain in the mix. Honestly, it’s a bit like trying to guess which of your friends will actually show up to brunch—everyone says they’re interested, but who knows?

"I'll stick to my original prediction here," Schoenfield wrote on Tuesday, doubling down on his Padres pick. "From a career standpoint, it makes sense for him to go to a team in a good park for pitchers, so that could mean any of the West Coast teams (aside from the A's)—who might already have a small geographical advantage anyway. The Dodgers can pitch their winning ways, while the Padres can sell their smaller market and playing alongside Yu Darvish, Sasaki's favorite player as a kid. Of course, don't rule out the Yankees or Mets if the big-market 'issue' isn't really an issue."

In short: The West Coast has mountains and nice weather; the East Coast has... bagels and Broadway.

The Dodgers, as usual, bring their A-game to the table. They’ve built a reputation as the honors students of pitching development, and the addition of Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto to their roster only strengthens their appeal. Who wouldn’t want to join a team where your potential roommates are other Japanese superstars?

But don’t sleep on the Padres. San Diego offers a chill, mid-market vibe that might suit Sasaki just fine. Plus, Yu Darvish—the pitcher Sasaki grew up idolizing—is ready to roll out the welcome mat (and maybe even throw in some surf lessons). Oh, and let’s not forget Hideo Nomo, the original trailblazing Japanese MLB star, who happens to be a special assistant for the Padres. Talk about a recruiting dream team.

Meanwhile, the Yankees and Mets are hovering like big-market hawks, ready to swoop in with their massive checkbooks. If Sasaki doesn’t mind the bright lights and high rents, they could still make a compelling case.

Schoenfield thinks the Padres have the edge, but at the end of the day, it’s anyone’s game. Sasaki’s decision will not only shape his career but also leave one fanbase fist-pumping while the others wonder what might have been. Stay tuned—it’s going to be a wild ride.

YANKEES ARE MAKING BIG STEPS TOWARD ROKI SASAKI

Yankees picked up Paul Goldschmidt on a no-brainer 1 year contract and now have been working it when it comes to Roki Sasaki too. Cashman is on fire.

The New York Yankees are putting on an offseason clinic, flexing their muscles in ways that should make every other MLB team nervous, and now they’re gunning for the crown jewel of international talent: Roki Sasaki. Yes, that Roki Sasaki—the Japanese phenom whose fastball is so electric, it probably needs its own passport.

Landing Sasaki would supercharge an already star-studded rotation, giving the Yankees an embarrassment of riches on the mound. Imagine Fried, Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón, and Sasaki all sharing a clubhouse. That’s not a rotation; that’s a Hall of Fame exhibit in the making.

But here’s the twist: throwing buckets of cash won’t cut it this time. Thanks to MLB’s international signing rules, Sasaki can only receive money from each team’s international pool, so the Yankees can’t just flex their wallet. Instead, they’re flexing their charm and savvy—and boy, are they playing the game.

According to Jon Heyman, the Yankees flew cross-country to Los Angeles on Thursday to meet with Sasaki in person. While Japanese players historically lean toward West Coast teams like the Dodgers and Padres, the Yankees have a few tricks up their pinstriped sleeves. For starters, they’ve got a rich history with Japanese stars. Remember Hideki Matsui, the World Series MVP and beloved “Godzilla” of the Bronx? Or Masahiro Tanaka, who dominated for years and became a fan favorite?

Here’s where it gets even better: Tanaka himself is reportedly part of the Yankees’ pitch. As a legend in both Japan and New York, he’s a perfect ambassador to convince Sasaki that Yankee Stadium is where dreams—and championships—come true. Oh, and rumor has it Sasaki is a big fan of Tanaka, so this move could be the ultimate ace up the Yankees’ sleeve.

Sure, the Mets, Dodgers, and Padres are all in the mix, but let’s face it—the Yankees are on a mission to own the offseason and leave the competition eating their dust. With Sasaki in their sights, the Bombers are showing the world that they’re not just contenders; they’re dynasty-builders. And if they pull this off, the rest of MLB better watch out—because the Yankees are just getting started.