Is Roki Sasaki a Cheap Copy of Ohtani Dodgers Internally Shaken Before His First Pitch

The Los Angeles Dodgers’ latest high-profile acquisition, Japanese pitching sensation Roki Sasaki, has sparked massive debate—not just among fans, but within the organization itself. While some hail him as the next big star in Major League Baseball, others behind the scenes are quietly questioning whether Sasaki is simply a “cheap copy” of Shohei Ohtani, the team’s megastar.

And the tension is growing. Before Sasaki has even thrown a pitch for the Dodgers, internal factions have already started to form—threatening the unity of one of MLB’s most talent-loaded franchises.

The Arrival of Roki Sasaki and the Instant Pressure

Roki Sasaki, nicknamed the “Monster of Reiwa,” has already built a reputation in Japan for his blazing fastballs and near-perfect mechanics. With a fastball topping 102 mph and devastating breaking pitches, his raw talent is undeniable.

But the timing of his arrival—just months after the Dodgers signed Shohei Ohtani to a record-breaking deal—has cast a shadow of comparison that some in the clubhouse feel is unfair and unnecessary.

“There’s a real concern we’re expecting him to be Ohtani 2.0 before he’s even played an MLB inning,” said one anonymous team insider.

Internal Division Takes Root in the Dodgers Clubhouse

Reports suggest that the Dodgers’ coaching and scouting staff are split into two camps: those who believe Sasaki will thrive under the Ohtani spotlight, and those who worry the comparisons will undermine his development.

Some scouts believe the marketing team is leaning too heavily into the “Japanese superstar” narrative, using Ohtani’s fame to frame Sasaki’s brand. Others argue that the team needs to let Sasaki develop his own identity.

“They’re both Japanese. That’s where the comparison should stop,” said a veteran team figure. “Ohtani is a two-way unicorn. Sasaki’s a different kind of weapon.”

Is the ‘Cheap Copy’ Label Just Media Hype

While no one within the Dodgers has used the term “cheap copy” on record, the phrase has appeared in a growing number of social media posts and blog headlines. Critics argue that this label is both disrespectful and misleading, reducing Sasaki’s world-class pitching ability to a marketing narrative.

Many fans have come to his defense, pointing out that Sasaki opted out of a much larger posting fee by waiting to move to the MLB, showing both patience and confidence.

Sasaki Speaks Out and Stays Focused

Despite the noise, Roki Sasaki remains calm and focused in his early days with the Dodgers.

“I respect Ohtani-san deeply,” Sasaki told reporters. “But I am here to pitch. I will show who I am on the mound.”

That calm demeanor has impressed some in the clubhouse, though the pressure is undeniably intense. With media, fans, and even teammates unsure of what to expect, Sasaki’s first few starts could define his entire rookie season.

A Delicate Balancing Act for the Dodgers

The Dodgers now face a critical challenge: supporting Sasaki’s development without burdening him with Ohtani-level expectations. If handled poorly, the team risks alienating both its stars and its coaching staff.

But if they find the right balance, Los Angeles could be on the verge of forming the most electrifying Japanese pitching duo in MLB history.

Conclusion Not a Copy But a New Chapter

Roki Sasaki isn’t a copy of Shohei Ohtani — he’s something new. Whether he becomes the Dodgers’ next ace or folds under the weight of impossible comparisons depends not only on his arm, but on how the organization chooses to shape his journey. One thing is certain: the entire baseball world will be watching his very first pitch.