The Philadelphia Phillies are in a constant pursuit of adding talent to their roster. With a team already filled with significant talent, they faced a setback during the October playoffs. One area where they are clearly looking to upgrade is in the starting rotation, particularly by replacing Taijuan Walker. Last season, Walker had a disappointing 7.10 ERA in 19 games. While options like Garrett Crochet and Max Fried are solid, the Phillies have their eyes set on an international free agent who has never played in MLB before - Roki Sasaki.FanSided's Christopher Kline has strongly advocated for the Phillies to sign Sasaki, highlighting him as a viable option with the money that would have been spent on Juan Soto. In Miami, on March 20, Roki Sasaki #14 of Japan delivered a pitch in the first inning against Mexico at loanDepot park. Kline wrote, "With only four years of pro experience overseas, Sasaki isn't eligible for the same mega-contract as fellow countryman Yoshinobu Yamamoto received last winter. Instead, he will sign for a standard international prospect amount. Sasaki is expected to prioritize organizational fit over financial gains. The Phillies would provide him with three 2024 All-Stars in the starting rotation and a proven track record of developing aces in-house (like Nola and Suarez).There is no denying that Sasaki would be a significant addition to the Phillies' roster. However, the reality is that there are 30 teams vying for his services, all with the financial ability to sign him. Predicting where this Japanese sensation will end up is challenging as the playing field is even since he can't sign a major league contract yet. While he would be a great fit for the Phillies, Philadelphia needs to make a compelling case that it is the ideal destination for Sasaki.Upgrading the Starting Rotation
The Phillies' current starting rotation needs an upgrade, and Sasaki presents a unique opportunity. His potential to contribute and bring a different dimension to the team is highly regarded. With his limited pro experience overseas, he brings a fresh perspective and a hunger to prove himself in the MLB. The Phillies believe that he can fit seamlessly into their system and become a key contributor.Organizational Fit and Development
Sasaki's emphasis on organizational fit is crucial. The Phillies have a history of developing aces in-house, and they believe they can provide him with the right environment to thrive. By adding him to the rotation, they can enhance the overall depth and competitiveness of the team. The presence of three 2024 All-Stars alongside him will also help him adapt and grow.The Competitive Landscape
The pursuit of Roki Sasaki is not an easy task as 30 teams are vying for his services. Each team has its own advantages and offers, making it a highly competitive race. The Phillies need to stand out and convince Sasaki that they are the best choice for him. They must showcase their plans for his development and how he can fit into their long-term vision.
READ MORE