MLB · 11 months ago

Roki Sasaki and More: Top 5 International MLB Free Agents for 2025

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5. Koyo Aoyagi – Potential Bullpen Weapon
2024 Stats (NPB): 2-3, 61.0 IP, 3.69 ERA, 5.2 K/9, 3.1 BB/9

Once a top starting pitcher in Japan, Koyo Aoyagi now projects as a versatile bullpen option for MLB teams. A three-time NPB All-Star, Aoyagi led the Central League in ERA in 2022. However, his recent struggles and time in the minor leagues have raised concerns.

Strengths: Former ERA leader, versatility (SP/RP)
Concerns: Decline in recent seasons, control issues
Former Team: Hanshin Tigers

Aoyagi’s future could depend on whether MLB teams envision him as a starter or bullpen arm. He has until January 17, 2025, to finalize a deal.

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1. Roki Sasaki – The Next MLB Phenom
Thanks to Just Baseball for the stats, analysis and insights for this slideshow article.

2024 Stats (NPB): 10-5, 111.0 IP, 2.35 ERA, 10.5 K/9, 2.6 BB/9

At just 23 years old, Roki Sasaki is the most anticipated name in the 2025 international free agent class. Already a two-time NPB All-Star, Sasaki has elite strikeout ability and immense potential. Unlike previous Japanese imports like Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Sasaki may need time to adjust to MLB competition, but his ceiling is that of a generational ace.

Strengths: High strikeout rates, electric fastball, young age
Signing Window: January 15-23, 2025
Former Team: Chiba Lotte Marines

The Chiba Lotte Marines will receive a release fee when Sasaki signs, and with his limited service time, his signing will come at a reasonable price. Expect all 30 teams to pursue this elite pitching prospect.

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2. Tomoyuki Sugano – Veteran Control Artist
2024 Stats (NPB): 15-3, 156.2 IP, 1.67 ERA, 6.4 K/9, 0.9 BB/9

Tomoyuki Sugano proved in 2024 why he’s still a dominant force, winning his third Central League MVP Award. The veteran right-hander excels with pinpoint control, posting an elite 0.9 BB/9 rate. Sugano signed a one-year, $13 million deal with the Baltimore Orioles, showcasing his immediate value as a short-term solution for MLB rotations.

Strengths: Control, experience, six-pitch mix
Concerns: Limited strikeouts, success reliant on soft contact
Former Team: Yomiuri Giants

While Sugano may not overpower hitters, his ability to limit walks and hard contact makes him an excellent addition for MLB clubs looking for veteran stability.

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3. Hyeseong Kim – Versatile Contact Hitter
2024 Stats (KBO): 567 PA, 11 HR, 30 SB, .326/.383/.458 (.841 OPS)

Hyeseong Kim is the top positional player in the 2025 international free agent pool. A former shortstop, Kim has settled into second base and excelled as a contact hitter and elite baserunner. His .326 batting average and 30 stolen bases in 2024 highlight his offensive consistency in the KBO.

Strengths: Speed, contact ability, solid defense
Concerns: Lack of power, KBO-to-MLB transition
Former Team: Kiwoom Heroes

Kim’s skill set mirrors that of Ha-Seong Kim, though he may command slightly less money due to power concerns. At just 26 years old, Kim has time to develop and offers a high floor with his defense and speed.

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4. Shinnosuke Ogasawara – Durable Left-Handed Starter
2024 Stats (NPB): 5-11, 144.1 IP, 3.12 ERA, 5.1 K/9, 1.4 BB/9

Though not as flashy as Roki Sasaki, Shinnosuke Ogasawara is a reliable left-hander with durability on his side. With four consecutive seasons of 140+ innings, Ogasawara has proven he can handle a heavy workload.

Strengths: Durability, low walk rate, consistency
Concerns: Low strikeout rate, limited upside
Former Team: Chunichi Dragons

While Ogasawara may not become a star, his ability to eat innings makes him a valuable depth option for MLB rotations. He was posted on December 10 and has until January 24, 2025, to secure an MLB deal.
5. Koyo Aoyagi – Potential Bullpen Weapon
2024 Stats (NPB): 2-3, 61.0 IP, 3.69 ERA, 5.2 K/9, 3.1 BB/9

Once a top starting pitcher in Japan, Koyo Aoyagi now projects as a versatile bullpen option for MLB teams. A three-time NPB All-Star, Aoyagi led the Central League in ERA in 2022. However, his recent struggles and time in the minor leagues have raised concerns.

Strengths: Former ERA leader, versatility (SP/RP)
Concerns: Decline in recent seasons, control issues
Former Team: Hanshin Tigers

Aoyagi’s future could depend on whether MLB teams envision him as a starter or bullpen arm. He has until January 17, 2025, to finalize a deal.

Swing for the Fences with SportsGrid’s free daily MLB Game Picks and MLB Prop Picks.
1. Roki Sasaki – The Next MLB Phenom
Thanks to Just Baseball for the stats, analysis and insights for this slideshow article.

2024 Stats (NPB): 10-5, 111.0 IP, 2.35 ERA, 10.5 K/9, 2.6 BB/9

At just 23 years old, Roki Sasaki is the most anticipated name in the 2025 international free agent class. Already a two-time NPB All-Star, Sasaki has elite strikeout ability and immense potential. Unlike previous Japanese imports like Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Sasaki may need time to adjust to MLB competition, but his ceiling is that of a generational ace.

Strengths: High strikeout rates, electric fastball, young age
Signing Window: January 15-23, 2025
Former Team: Chiba Lotte Marines

The Chiba Lotte Marines will receive a release fee when Sasaki signs, and with his limited service time, his signing will come at a reasonable price. Expect all 30 teams to pursue this elite pitching prospect.

Have all the intel you need? Free actionable info is one click away! Sign up for our daily newsletter.

Roki Sasaki and More: Top 5 International MLB Free Agents for 2025

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