The New York Yankees‘ 2025 roster may see major changes from its 2024 version. Though Juan Soto’s future remains uncertain, his potential exit looms, as he and several other Yankees head toward free agency. Notably, five relievers from the bullpen are set to hit the market, signaling that bolstering the relief staff will be a focal point this offseason. However, the Yankees are also eyeing upgrades for their starting rotation after an inconsistent year from their top arms.
According to Will Sammon and Patrick Mooney of The Athletic, MLB’s front office is keeping a close watch on elite pitching options, including Japanese sensation Roki Sasaki—one of whom could be the Yankees. With standout skills that have captured MLB’s attention, Sasaki is a top target—though his entry into international free agency is not yet guaranteed. Complex negotiations with his NPB team, the Chiba Lotte Marines, will likely determine his availability this winter.
Who is Roki Sasaki?
Sasaki has been a major talking point during the MLB general managers’ meetings at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort and Spa, drawing significant interest from agents and executives alike. The Los Angeles Dodgers are rumored to be leading the chase, but if Sasaki enters the MLB posting system at age 23, the competition to sign him will be intense.
However, Sasaki’s move to MLB is complicated by NPB regulations. Typically, NPB players need nine years of service in Japan before qualifying for international free agency, and Sasaki currently has just four. If the Chiba Lotte Marines decide to post him, his signing would be restricted by MLB’s international bonus pool, limiting team offers to under $8 million. Given these constraints, Sasaki and the Marines may find it financially advantageous to delay his MLB entry until he’s closer to 25.
Are the four aces on the Yankees’ wishlist?
While Sasaki’s MLB entry remains uncertain, the Yankees have also been linked to several proven MLB aces. The New York Post’s Jon Heyman recently reported that Yankees general manager Brian Cashman has expressed interest in Max Fried, Corbin Burnes, and Blake Snell—each a Cy Young-caliber pitcher who would bring depth to the Yankees’ rotation.
In addition, the Yankees are reportedly considering Sean Manaea, who declined a $21.05 million qualifying offer from the Mets. Bringing in both Soto and an ace would stretch the Yankees’ budget, but should Juan Soto depart, funds could be reallocated to pursue these high-caliber starters.
If Soto doesn’t return, the Yankees’ interest in top-tier pitching is likely to intensify, with Cashman potentially moving beyond just “checking in” as he builds a more competitive 2025 roster.
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