The NPB just announced that pitcher Roki Sasaki has been released from his contract and has become an MLB free agent but the Toronto Blue Jays likely do not have a chance at landing him.
The Blue Jays unfortunately do not have a shot at signing Roki Sasaki
Sasaki has mentioned that since he is considered an amateur international player since he is only 23 years old, he will be looking to sign with a team that prioritizes lifestyle, comfort and most importantly a track record with player development.
Instead, "Sasaki will likely prioritize stability, lifestyle, comfort and, according to league sources, a team's track record with player development," The Athletic's Will Sammon wrote Saturday. -Worden
Unfortunately this is where the Blue Jays fall out of the running, if Sasaki is looking for a track record in player development especially in pitchers, the Blue Jays are far from having that.
Instead, "Sasaki will likely prioritize stability, lifestyle, comfort and, according to league sources, a team's track record with player development," The Athletic's Will Sammon wrote Saturday. -Worden
This is unfortunate news since the young star has dominated in Japan with 524 strikeouts in 414.2 innings pitched and a 2.02 ERA which proves he will be a dominant pitcher in the MLB as well.