The Los Angeles Dodgers will get to make a final pitch to Roki Sasaki, one of the most highly sought-after free agents in recent memory.
According to league sources, Sasaki, who narrowed his list of potential destinations to the Dodgers, San Diego Padres, and Toronto Blue Jays on Monday, will meet with LA representatives on Tuesday.
LA was among the first teams to meet with Sasaki and his representatives last month, and have been actively pursuing the young Japanese right-hander.
Dodgers Met With Roki Sasaki On Tuesday

This final meeting marks a crucial step in Sasaki’s decision-making process as he prepares to sign with a Major League Baseball club before the January 23rd deadline.
The Dodgers’ pitch to Sasaki is expected to feature appearances from several of their star players, according to league sources. This in-person interaction, not possible during the initial meetings held at Wasserman’s offices, provides Los Angeles with a unique opportunity to showcase their team culture and build a personal connection with the young pitcher.
The Dodgers have long been considered the favorites to acquire Sasaki, who is expected to sign a relatively modest contract given the current international bonus pool limitations.
This strategic approach, while potentially impacting the team’s international signing class in 2025, underscores their commitment to acquiring top-tier talent and building a championship-caliber roster.
LA has recently invested over a billion dollars in Japanese stars Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who have expressed a strong desire to “turn Japan blue,” according to manager Dave Roberts. This emphasis on cultivating a strong connection with Japanese baseball could serve as a significant appeal to Sasaki, particularly with regard to maximizing endorsement opportunities in the lucrative Los Angeles market.
While the Dodgers have been widely considered the favorites to acquire Sasaki, their pursuit has been characterized by a degree of discretion. President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman, while acknowledging Sasaki as a “major priority,” has maintained a relatively low profile regarding the team’s efforts to acquire the young pitcher.