Roki Sasaki Reiwa’s Troublemaking Monster Heads to the Dream Stage with a Smile
In his 5th year as a professional baseball player, Akinori Sasaki has decided to post his long-cherished wish to move to the U.S.
“I’m going to do my best in the U.S. and turn all the tough encouragement into power!”
The young strong arm, who is attracting attention from both Japan and the U.S., was unexpectedly showered with warm cheers from fans that day, causing him to secretly shed tears.
“To all the fans, thank you for your passionate support over the past five years. I will turn all the encouragement and tough words I’ve received into strength and do my best in America!”
On November 17, Roki Sasaki (23) appeared in public for the first time since his announcement to accept a posting for a Major League move, at the Chiba Lotte Marines’ Fan Appreciation Day held at ZOZO Marine Stadium.
Sasaki had openly expressed his desire to go to the Major Leagues for several years. Last offseason, he withdrew from the players’ association and had his contract for the season left unresolved until just before camp began, causing a stir in the baseball world. Additionally, due to frequent injuries and never completing a rotation since joining the team, many former players and fans are critical of his move to the Major Leagues.
“Of course, such opinions have reached Roki. That’s why he had been hesitant to speak with the media and avoided public appearances due to fear of heckling. However, at the Fan Appreciation Day, many fans were cheering for him, and there were few who voiced ‘tough encouragement.’ Feeling the love from the fans, Roki was seen with tears in his eyes on stage,” said a reporter who was there.
