Chicago Cubs Target Can Only Sign Minor League Deal Due to International Rules

As the offseason approaches, the Chicago Cubs find themselves in a unique position with their starting rotation.

While it’s not in dire need of a complete overhaul, there is room for improvement, especially if they can secure a pitcher at an affordable price.

The focus this winter should primarily be on enhancing their offense, but that doesn’t mean they can’t explore pitching options that could strengthen their lineup.

Among these options, Japanese sensation Roki Sasaki stands out as a potential game-changer.

Roki Sasaki has generated considerable buzz in baseball circles, and for good reason.

His performance on the mound speaks volumes about his talent.

Despite some uncertainty surrounding his status—particularly whether he will be posted by the Chiba Lotte Marines—there’s no doubt that if he were to join Major League Baseball, he would quickly rank among the top pitchers in the league.

His desire to pitch in the MLB could play a crucial role in this potential move, as he will need the approval of his current team.

According to Jim Bowden of The Athletic, if Sasaki does make the leap to the MLB, he would only be eligible to sign a minor league deal due to international regulations.

This situation mirrors what Shohei Ohtani experienced when he joined the Angels.

However, this doesn’t diminish Sasaki’s value; in fact, it could make him one of the most coveted pitchers available, especially given his impressive velocity, which peaked at 103 mph this past season.

Despite some concerns about his health—having missed two months due to arm issues—Sasaki’s performance remains compelling.

He averaged an impressive 100.5 mph on his fastball in his recent outings.

Teams’ interest in him may hinge on his medical history, but his track record of dominance, even with limited innings, positions him as a top target for many franchises.

For the Cubs, signing Sasaki could provide a significant boost without fundamentally altering their current roster. While it wouldn’t directly address their offensive shortcomings, acquiring a pitcher of his caliber could elevate their pitching staff to new heights. The prospect of landing a top-five pitcher at a relatively low cost would undoubtedly excite both the fan base and the organization. In a competitive landscape, making a move for Sasaki could be a defining moment for the Cubs this offseason.