The Los Angeles Dodgers have had a tremendous offseason, adding to their already formidable roster. However, the signing of free agent pitcher Roki Sasaki may have been the biggest move this winter.
The youthful right-hander from Japan joins the Dodgers at a low cost but with a huge return potential. Los Angeles won the recruitment war for the right-hander, defeating rival San Diego Padres and Toronto Blue Jays.
Many expected Sasaki to sign with the Padres, but the Dodgers ultimately triumphed. Some in the league believed Sasaki already knew he’d sign with the Dodgers but went through the full process nonetheless.
Manny Machado, the Padres’ great third baseman, may now be added to that list. Machado appeared to take a dig at the new Dodgers pitcher during the Padres FanFest, citing his free agent decision.
Machado believes the individual had a predetermined destination in mind. “That’s just my opinion.”
Machado is entitled to his views, but Sasaki was free to sign with any baseball team. San Diego was unable to persuade him, likely for a variety of reasons.
The Padres had countless opportunities to sign Sasaki, but he ultimately chose the Dodgers. Los Angeles has shown to be the better organization throughout the years, and Sasaki made his decision.
When these two teams meet this season, we can all expect fireworks. This has become one of, if not the finest, rivalry in baseball, and it should only grow more exciting this season.
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