In a significant development for the Los Angeles Dodgers, the highly-anticipated signing of Japanese pitching sensation Roki Sasaki has captured the attention of fans and analysts alike. Known for his impressive performances with the Chiba Lotte Marines, Sasaki’s transition to Major League Baseball is stirring curiosity, particularly regarding which jersey number he will don as he embarks on this new chapter in his career.
Sasaki has worn the number 17 throughout his time in Japan, a number that carries personal significance. However, as he prepares for his debut in Los Angeles, he faces the challenge of selecting a new number, given that several iconic digits are either already assigned or retired within the Dodgers organization. For a player as superstitious as Sasaki, this decision transcends mere aesthetics; it is a crucial connection to the history and legacy he aims to build in the MLB.
Among the options available, the number 14 stands out. Though Sasaki wore this number while representing Samurai Japan, it is currently retired in honor of Dodgers legend Gil Hodges. Other numbers, such as 18, are also unavailable as they belong to fellow pitcher Yabu Yamamoto. However, options like 10 and 21 remain open, especially after Walker Buehler’s recent departure to the Boston Red Sox, which freed up the number 21.
The intrigue surrounding Sasaki’s number choice intensified following a recent Instagram post by veteran infielder Miguel Rojas. In the post, Rojas appears wearing number 19, a departure from the number 11 he wore last season. This shift has led to speculation that Rojas may be willing to relinquish number 11 for Sasaki, a gesture that would not only foster team camaraderie but also resonate symbolically with the Japanese pitcher’s journey. In Japan, numbers between 10 and 20 are often associated with major league pitchers, making this a particularly poignant offer.
The official announcement of Sasaki’s signing came last Friday after an extensive negotiation process. Sasaki took his decision seriously, interviewing multiple teams and setting specific criteria to evaluate each opportunity. In his Instagram statement, he emphasized the weight of his choice, stating, “It was a very difficult decision, but I will do my best to make the right decision when I look back on my baseball career.” Ultimately, the Dodgers emerged victorious in the bidding war against formidable competitors like the San Diego Padres and the Toronto Blue Jays.
As fans eagerly await Sasaki’s debut, the excitement extends to the question of which number he will choose to represent him at Dodger Stadium. As the baseball community watches closely, fans are encouraged to share their thoughts on the ideal number for Sasaki in the comments section. With this signing, the Dodgers not only enhance their roster but also weave a new thread into the rich tapestry of their storied franchise.
