PACKER PRIDE: Rōki Sasaki Turns Down $305 Million Offer from Yankees,Commits to Champion Dodgers

In a move that sent shockwaves through the baseball world, Japanese pitching sensation Rōki Sasaki has officially rejected a $305 million contract offer from the New York Yankees, declaring his loyalty to the reigning World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers. The record-breaking deal, reported to be fully guaranteed but without performance bonuses, would have made Sasaki one of the highest-paid pitchers in MLB history.

“My loyalty is to the champion Dodgers and to the dream we’re building here,” Sasaki said during a press conference in Los Angeles. “I came to win — and we’re just getting started.”

The Yankees’ $305 Million Gamble

The New York Yankees, known for their aggressive offseason spending, made a bold attempt to land Sasaki, the 23-year-old phenom who took Major League Baseball by storm after signing with the Dodgers in 2024 from Japan’s Chiba Lotte Marines.

Sources close to the negotiations confirm the Yankees offered a 10-year, $305 million contract with no incentives or bonuses, hoping the stability of the fully guaranteed deal would sway Sasaki to switch coasts.

“It was one of the richest offers we’ve ever seen for a pitcher,” said MLB insider Jeff Passan. “And still, Sasaki said no.”

Why Sasaki Said No to the Money

For Sasaki, the decision was never about dollars — it was about destiny.

“The Dodgers believed in me from day one,” Sasaki explained. “They gave me a home, a championship culture, and teammates who made me better. How can you walk away from that?”

Sasaki’s respect for the Dodgers’ coaching staff, front office, and fan base was evident as he described his commitment to “finishing what we started.”

“Money can buy comfort, but it can’t buy chemistry, culture, or championships,” he added.

A Historic Rookie Season

Sasaki’s rookie season with the Dodgers was nothing short of spectacular. His 2024 performance earned him:

• AL Rookie of the Year (unanimous vote)

• All-Star selection

• 2nd in Cy Young voting

• 17–4 record, 2.21 ERA, 248 strikeouts, and 0.95 WHIP

He also played a pivotal role in helping the Dodgers secure their 2024 World Series title, making clutch starts throughout the postseason.

“Rōki’s talent is generational, but his discipline and humility are what truly set him apart,” said Dodgers manager Dave Roberts.

Fan Reactions: Dodgers Rejoice, Yankees React

Dodgers fans erupted on social media after hearing Sasaki’s decision, with trending hashtags like #SasakiStays, #DodgerForLife, and #LoyaltyOverMoney. Fans outside Dodger Stadium held up signs that read “Thank You, Rōki” and “Our Ace Forever.”

Meanwhile, Yankees fans expressed disappointment but also respect.

“He made a classy decision,” one Yankees fan posted on X. “Hate to lose him, but love that loyalty still matters in the game.”

Dodgers Front Office: A Long-Term Vision

Dodgers President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman issued a statement praising Sasaki’s loyalty and confirming that the team is working on a long-term extension that reflects his performance and leadership value.

“Rōki is more than just an elite pitcher — he’s a foundational piece of our future. We’re thrilled to have him stay in Los Angeles for the long run.”

The team is reportedly crafting a revised deal that could make Sasaki the highest-paid international player in MLB history — and one of the league’s most marketable stars.

Yankees’ Missed Opportunity

For the Yankees, missing out on Sasaki is a blow to their pitching rebuild efforts. After falling short in the 2024 postseason, they were looking to make a splash by bringing in the electrifying right-hander. Instead, they’ll now have to pivot — and reflect on why money alone wasn’t enough.

“The Yankees are realizing that prestige and cash don’t outweigh culture and loyalty anymore,” said MLB analyst Buster Olney.

Conclusion: Rōki Sasaki Chooses Legacy Over Luxury

In turning down $305 million from baseball’s most iconic franchise, Rōki Sasaki made a powerful statement — not just about where he wants to play, but about the kind of player he wants to be.

He’s not chasing money. He’s chasing greatness.

And in Los Angeles, he believes he’s found the perfect place to do it.