"Roki Sasaki becomes right up there with Juan Soto, Corbin Burnes" - MLB insider makes major prediction about Japanese's future

As MLB heads into the offseason, Roki Sasaki, the Japanese pitching sensation from the Chiba Lotte Marines, has become a hot topic. His potential free agency is eagerly anticipated, with comparisons to stars like Juan Soto and Corbin Burnes. Many insiders believe Sasaki could significantly shake up the market.

On Thursday's edition of "Hot Stove," insider Jon Morosi said:

"The new news here is that Sasaki is expected to be part of next year's international signing class, which begins on Jan. 15. So, he's still going to be part of the MLB in 2025. We just will find out much later in the offseason. ...

"The posting news, which we would love when this happens, is probably going to occur right around the time when we are at the winter meetings, which will be good for discussion around MLB as Sasaki becomes right up there with the Soto conversation and the Corbin Burnes conversation as the most coveted players."

Sasaki has established himself as a great player in the NPB. He has maintained an ERA of 2.10 in four seasons and tallied 505 strikeouts in 394.2 innings. His popular status in the free-agency period is also due to his 102 mph fastball.

Roki Sasaki's potential move to MLB won't see him land a deal near Yoshinobu Yamamoto's $325 million contract. Under MLB rules, Sasaki will be eligible to sign only a minor league contract, giving all 30 teams a shot at acquiring him. This could spark a competitive bidding war.

"But in some ways, he is the most coveted because of the international signing bonus rules," Morosi added. "He's gonna sign for a minor league deal, somewhere in the range of three, or four or five million dollars, which means everybody wants rookie Sasaki."

Roki Sasaki entering the market alongside Juan Soto and Corbin Burnes adds excitement to this free-agent class. Soto impressed last season with 41 home runs, a .288 batting average, a .419 on-base percentage and a .569 slugging percentage.

Burnes was a reliable ace, finishing with a 15-9 record, a 2.92 ERA over 194.1 innings and 181 strikeouts. He also maintained a 1.10 WHIP, allowing 165 hits and 63 earned runs.

Sasaki has a promising future in MLB due to his exceptional talent

Baseball: World Baseball Classic - Semifinal Japan vs Mexico - Source: Imagn

Sasaki's arrival will certainly alter the landscape of the MLB pitching market. His exceptional skill and youthful age make him a highly desired commodity. The Los Angeles Dodgers, renowned for signing international stars, are anticipated to be formidable contenders.

Throughout the offseason, Sasaki's decision will remain a closely followed story. With his impressive range of abilities, he is ready to directly influence whatever team signs him.