F1 Puzzle Unraveled: Wolff Reveals the Real Reason Behind Sasaki’s Shocking Choice
Riki Sasaki, Japanese NPB Star, Holds Multiple Meetings with MLB Teams
As the MLB offseason heats up, one of the most highly-anticipated free agents, Riki Sasaki, has been busy holding meetings with MLB teams. Sasaki’s agent, Joel Wolfe, provided insight into the process, revealing that the team will narrow down the list of suitors soon.
According to Wolfe, Sasaki has held preliminary meetings with at least seven teams, including big-market franchises such as the Dodgers, Rangers, Yankees, Mets, Cubs, Giants, and Padres. While Wolfe did not disclose the exact number of teams, he mentioned that 20 clubs sent in presentations expressing interest.
Each meeting with Sasaki follows a specific protocol, with the team not being allowed to bring any players and the conversation limited to less than two hours. Sasaki has asked to keep each conversation equal to put all teams on the same footing. After each meeting, Sasaki returns to Japan for vacation.
It’s unclear whether any other teams have met with Sasaki beyond the reported seven. Some teams, such as the Tigers and Red Sox, have made initial proposals but have not yet received a response.
Wolfe has not ruled out allowing one or two more teams to take an initial sit-down, but the agent will start narrowing down the list soon. Sasaki has not visited any team cities, except for a stop in Los Angeles due to Wasserman’s headquarters being located there. He may visit team cities after the New Year.
The international amateur free agent signing period is set to begin on January 15, but Sasaki’s posting deadline is January 23. Wolfe mentioned that Sasaki may not have made a decision by the signing window’s opening, and could potentially make a decision before the release deadline. This would give MLB teams just over a week to trade international signing bonus allocations, which would increase what they can offer Sasaki.
FAQ:
Q: How many teams has Riki Sasaki met with?
A: At least seven teams, including big-market franchises like the Dodgers, Rangers, Yankees, Mets, Cubs, Giants, and Padres.
Q: What is the protocol for each meeting with Sasaki?
A: Sasaki requests that teams not bring any players, and each conversation is limited to less than two hours to keep each team on equal footing.
Q: Will Sasaki visit any team cities?
A: Sasaki may visit team cities after the New Year, except for a stop in Los Angeles due to Wasserman’s headquarters being located there.
Q: What is the posting deadline for Riki Sasaki?
A: January 23, 45 days after the initial proposal.
Conclusion:
Riki Sasaki’s free agency has generated significant buzz in the MLB offseason, with 20 teams expressing interest. Sasaki’s agent, Joel Wolfe, has provided insight into the process, revealing a strict protocol for each meeting and the possibility of narrowing down the list of suitors soon. As MLB teams continue to woo Sasaki, it remains to be seen which team will ultimately secure his services.
