The Atlanta Braves didn’t have the year they hoped for in 2024, but their reputation as one of Major League Baseball’s premier franchises hasn’t changed. Despite a down season, the Braves remain a team built for sustained success, and their future could get even brighter if they manage to land Japanese pitching star Rōki Sasaki. The 22-year-old phenom is expected to leap MLB in 2025, and Atlanta might be one of the more intriguing teams in the mix.
Sasaki’s numbers from Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) are eye-popping. Over 18 games last season, he racked up 129 strikeouts, showcasing the kind of dominance that has made him a two-time NPB All-Star. His high-velocity fastball, which hits triple digits, and his devastating splitter caught the world’s attention during the World Baseball Classic, where he made even the best hitters look overmatched.
The Braves will have $6.2 million in their international signing bonus pool when the 2025 window opens on January 15, which puts them in a good position to pursue Sasaki. Unlike traditional free agents, Sasaki’s status as an amateur means his signing will depend solely on international bonus money. This levels the financial playing field. While teams like the Dodgers and Mets are obvious contenders, Atlanta’s mix of player development expertise and long-term competitiveness might set them apart.
With Max Fried and Charlie Morton entering free agency, the Braves have an opportunity to reshape their pitching staff, and Sasaki could be a perfect fit. As Christopher Kline of FanSided pointed out, joining the Braves wouldn’t require him to step into an ace role immediately. Atlanta’s strong roster would allow him to adapt to MLB at his own pace while contributing to a team with championship aspirations.
The Braves’ reputation for pitching development could be another key factor. As Jim Bowden of The Athletic noted Atlanta’s track record makes them a compelling option. Over the years, the Braves have consistently turned raw talent into top-tier pitchers, a trend that could appeal to Sasaki as he transitions to a new league.
Landing a player of Sasaki’s caliber would be a rare move for Atlanta. They are a team not typically associated with signing Japanese stars. The unique circumstances surrounding this signing period and the Braves’ need for a top-tier arm make this an opportunity worth watching. Atlanta offers a chance to step into the spotlight on a team built to contend for years to come for Sasaki. It’s a chance to add a generational talent without breaking the bank for the Braves.
