Roki Sasaki Finalists Announcement: Cubs Not Included in Selections
The Chicago Cubs were left reeling as pitcher Roki Sasaki unveiled his final three picks for potential teams in Major League Baseball. Among those selections, the Cubs found themselves conspicuously absent, raising questions about their pitching strategy for the upcoming season.
Sasaki, a 23-year-old Japanese phenom, has been making waves in the baseball world with his impressive track record in the Nippon Professional Baseball league. With a stellar 30-15 record and a remarkable 2.10 ERA in 64 starts, Sasaki has proven himself to be a force to be reckoned with on the mound.
The Cubs, who had their sights set on acquiring Sasaki to bolster their pitching rotation, were dealt a significant blow when they learned that they had not made the cut. Despite their successful acquisition of pitcher Shota Imanaga from Japan last season, the Cubs were unable to secure Sasaki’s coveted signature.
Missed Opportunity for Cubs
The news of Sasaki’s finalists list, which includes the Los Angeles Dodgers, San Diego Padres, and Toronto Blue Jays, came as a disappointment to Cubs fans and management alike. The team was hopeful that Sasaki would follow in the footsteps of Imanaga and bring his formidable talents to Wrigley Field.
Roster Uncertainty for Cubs
With Sasaki out of the picture, the Cubs now face uncertainty in their pitching rotation for the 2025 season. While Imanaga, Justin Steele, and Jameson Taillon are expected to lead the rotation, the remaining spots are up for grabs. Free agent signings Matthew Boyd and Colin Rea, along with prospects like Javier Assad, Jordan Wicks, and Ben Brown, will be vying for a chance to make their mark in spring training.
Potential Showdown in Japan
If Sasaki ultimately signs with the Los Angeles Dodgers, there is a possibility that he could face off against the Cubs early in his Major League career. The two teams are slated to open the season in Japan in mid-March, setting the stage for a potential showdown between Sasaki and his former suitors.
As the Cubs regroup and refocus their efforts on building a competitive roster for the upcoming season, the absence of Sasaki serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the baseball landscape. While the team may have missed out on a prized prospect, the future remains bright with a talented core of players eager to make their mark in the league.
