Dodgers face competition from Padres in pursuit of Japanese star Roki Sasaki

The Los Angeles Dodgers are considered favorites to sign Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki, a top international free agent. However, predictions suggest that the San Diego Padres, the Dodgers' rivals, may actually secure his contract. Sasaki, 23, is highly regarded for his pitching skills and can throw fastballs in the triple digits. He is eligible for a minor-league deal, making him accessible to all teams, including the Dodgers and Padres. Analysts highlight the Padres' need for a starting pitcher, especially with Joe Musgrove out for 2025 due to surgery. The connection to fellow Japanese player Yu Darvish further strengthens the Padres' position in the race for Sasaki.