The Yankees’ dream of adding Japanese phenom Roki Sasaki to their rotation has officially come to an end, according to Jack Curry of the YES Network. While the Yankees had been one of several teams making a strong push for the 22-year-old superstar, it appears Sasaki will not be donning the pinstripes in 2025. This is a disappointing blow for a team that was hoping to assemble one of the most dominant rotations in baseball history.
Sasaki Was the Missing Puzzle Piece
For weeks, the Yankees had been cautiously optimistic about their chances of landing Sasaki, whose fastball regularly touches 102 mph and pairs beautifully with an elite splitter.
Adding Sasaki to a rotation already featuring Gerrit Cole, Max Fried, Carlos Rodon, Clarke Schmidt, and Luis Gil would have given the Yankees an almost unfair advantage. His talent could have allowed the Yankees to trade one of their controllable pitchers, potentially upgrading their infield in the process.
Instead, the Yankees will settle for what they already have. Sasaki’s ability to dominate hitters at such a young age made him a tantalizing prospect for a team that has been prioritizing run prevention this offseason. Missing out on him creates a significant gap in their plans, especially considering how much he would have opened up the Yankees’ options both on the field and in trade negotiations.
Why Sasaki Was a Long Shot
The Yankees were always facing stiff competition in the Sasaki sweepstakes. The Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres emerged as early favorites, with both teams offering not only financial flexibility but also proximity to Japan, which may have factored into Sasaki’s decision. The Yankees, while appealing in terms of legacy and marketing power, faced an uphill battle when it came to geography and fit.
Jack Curry’s report adds weight to what many speculated: Sasaki’s decision likely hinged on more than just the dollar figure. For a pitcher with superstar potential, lifestyle, comfort, and development opportunities all come into play. The Yankees put their best foot forward, but the odds were never truly in their favor.
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What’s Next for the Yankees?
With Sasaki off the board, the Yankees may double down on their current rotation, which is still one of the best in baseball. Gerrit Cole remains the ace, and Max Fried offers elite consistency. Carlos Rodon is expected to bounce back from an inconsistent 2024 season, while Schmidt and Gil provide youth and upside.