### Yankees Eyeing Japanese Pitcher Roki Sasaki for 2025
After losing out on star pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto to the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 2024 offseason, the New York Yankees are planning to be even more aggressive in their pursuit of another Japanese pitcher, Roki Sasaki, in 2025.
MLB Trade Rumors’ Nick Deeds, cited by Patrick McAvoy of Fan Nation’s Inside the Pinstripes, reported that the Yankees are among the teams already scouting Sasaki’s starts in Japan’s NPB league this season. Other interested teams include the Dodgers, New York Mets, St. Louis Cardinals, and Texas Rangers. The financial playing field is more even due to spending restrictions on players posted before age 25.
### Roki Sasaki’s Impressive NPB Performance
Sasaki, 22, has posted impressive numbers in the NPB, boasting a 4-2 record with a 2.18 ERA and 61 strikeouts in 2024. Over his first four professional seasons, he has demonstrated strong command with a 0.856 WHIP, indicating his potential as a future MLB superstar.
### Yankees’ Current Pitching Staff
The Yankees’ current pitching staff is strong, with Carlos Rodon, Luis Gil, Marcus Stroman, and Clarke Schmidt all maintaining sub-3.00 ERAs and winning records. Additionally, reigning AL Cy Young winner Gerrit Cole is working his way back from an elbow injury that has sidelined him for the season.
