The MLB offseason is reaching its fever pitch as spring training looms on the horizon, with pitchers and catchers set to report in less than a month.
Yet, the hot stove is still burning, and the free-agent market remains busy. Some of the biggest names in baseball are still waiting for the right deals to come their way.
A Free Agent Frenzy as Spring Training Nears
Shockingly, three of the top eight free agents remain unsigned, and if you broaden the scope, five of the top 12 and seven of the top 15 are also without contracts.
In fact, 23 of the top 50 free agents on the CBS Sports tracker are still up for grabs, meaning there’s no shortage of action to come as teams scramble to finalize their rosters.
One of the marquee names still in play is none other than Roki Sasaki, the 23-year-old pitching sensation from Japan, whose decision could shift the balance of power in the league.
With a 2.02 career ERA and a deadly combination of velocity and movement, Sasaki is one of the most coveted pitchers not yet in an MLB uniform.
Known for his dominance in Japan’s NPB, where he once threw a 19-strikeout perfect game, Sasaki brings the ace-level potential to whichever team secures his services.
Roki Sasaki: The Pitching Sensation Everyone Wants
According to ESPN, Sasaki has narrowed his list of suitors to three teams: the Los Angeles Dodgers, San Diego Padres, and Toronto Blue Jays.
The international free agency window opens Wednesday, and Sasaki’s decision could come anytime between then and January 23, when his posting window closes. The Dodgers are considered the favorites, but the Padres and Blue Jays are still very much in the hunt.
Sasaki’s unique situation adds another layer of intrigue. Despite his talent, his earning potential is restricted by international signing rules and spending caps. This means his choice could hinge on factors beyond money.
With a 10-5 record, a 2.35 ERA, and 129 strikeouts in 111 innings last season, Sasaki has already proven he has the tools to dominate at the highest level.
Teams are now in a frenzy to present their best offers and pitch their environments as the most conducive to Sasaki’s success.
Giants and Yankees Out: The Race Narrows
Meanwhile, other teams, like the Giants and Yankees, have already been informed they’re out of the running.
The Giants’ general manager, Zack Minasian, confirmed the disappointing news during a press conference for another big signing—Justin Verlander.
As it stands, San Francisco’s rotation appears set with Logan Webb, Robbie Ray, Verlander, Kyle Harrison, and Jordan Hicks. The Yankees, Mets, and Rangers have also been eliminated from contention for Sasaki, signaling that the race for the Japanese phenom is down to the wire.
With the clock ticking and the international signing period heating up, all eyes are on Roki Sasaki. Whichever team lands him will be making a big statement going into the 2025 season.
