The sweepstakes for 23-year-old Japanese flamethrower Roki Sasaki could be nearing its conclusion. Sasaki, whose representation said he was open to playing for all 30 teams, is now reportedly down to two franchises as he nears a decision.

With ownership turmoil and no offseason additions, the Padres must figure out how to contend without the Japanese phenom they coveted.

With his window for a decision fast approaching, Roki Sasaki reportedly met with the Padres over the weekend as he continues to narrow his list of suitors. The highly coveted Japanese right-hander had an in-person meeting with the club in San Diego,

Fresh from the sticks,” “bright-eyed and bushy-tailed” upon making his way from Mobile, Ala., to San Diego, Jake Peavy eventually entrenched himself in America’s Finest City. In fact, the contract that stemmed from his NL Cy Young Award essentially paid for a house within a stone’s throw of Trevor Hoffman’s and Mark Loretta’s homes.

A decision for Roki Sasaki is quickly approaching with the 2025 international signing period beginning on Jan. 15. The right-hander will have roughly a week to sign with a team before the Jan.

A video has recently surfaced of what appears to be Roki Sasaki pitching on flat ground at Petco Park. There has not been any confirmation on whether the video