Rōki Sasaki Hints Again: “Willing to Take a Pay Cut, Just Need the Dodgers to Give Me a Chance” – Dave Roberts Reveals Locker Room Secret That Has the Whole MLB Worried

Los Angeles, CA — Japanese pitching prodigy Rōki Sasaki made waves this week with a surprising and unconventional statement that has left both fans and Major League Baseball insiders stunned. Following a practice session at Dodger Stadium, Sasaki, 22, told reporters:

“I’m willing to take a pay cut. I just need the Dodgers to give me a chance—beyond pitching.”

The cryptic remark, initially met with laughter, quickly sparked serious speculation. What exactly did he mean? Sources within the team have since revealed that Sasaki has expressed a desire to play both ways—pitching, yes, but also contributing as a position player or even pinch hitter.

In a league that has only recently embraced two-way stars like Shohei Ohtani, Sasaki’s ambitions are no longer being taken lightly.

Not Just a Pitcher

Known for his blazing fastball and surgical command on the mound, Sasaki has quickly become a fan favorite since joining the Dodgers from Japan’s Chiba Lotte Marines. But according to multiple teammates, Sasaki has been secretly working on his batting and outfield drills behind the scenes.

“He’s legit,” said one Dodgers player under anonymity. “He’s been in the cage early every morning. He’s got power. It’s not a joke to him.”

During batting practice, observers have noted Sasaki sending balls deep into the stands—sometimes even clearing the fences in right-center. While the team has kept tight-lipped on any official plans, his persistence may soon force their hand.

Dave Roberts Speaks Out

In a rare moment of candor, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts addressed the issue head-on during a press conference Friday.

“I’m not going to lie—we’re having internal conversations about it. Rōki brings a different energy. It’s not just about his talent—it’s about how this new generation sees the game.”

Roberts also shared what he called a “locker room revelation” that’s stirring concern across the MLB.

“There’s a real hunger among players now—not just to win, but to be seen, to express themselves creatively. It’s no longer enough to do one thing well. They want to entertain, break barriers, reshape expectations.”

This, Roberts says, is part of a wider shift in baseball culture—one that traditionalists in the league may not be ready for.

The Ohtani Effect?

Many believe Sasaki’s growing aspirations are influenced by his countryman Shohei Ohtani, who broke MLB norms by becoming a true two-way player and global superstar. With both players now under the Dodgers’ banner, fans and media alike are dreaming of a scenario where the team showcases not one, but two two-way phenoms.

“Why not?” one fan commented on Twitter. “If Ohtani can do it, and Sasaki wants to try, let’s go. Baseball needs the excitement.”

MLB’s Growing Identity Crisis

Sasaki’s boldness may be energizing fans, but behind the scenes, MLB executives are worried. Multiple insiders say league officials fear the sport is struggling to retain its identity in a rapidly shifting sports landscape, where entertainment, individuality, and viral moments often outweigh traditional values.

“Baseball’s got to evolve,” said one league executive. “Players like Sasaki are telling us that loud and clear.”

What Happens Next?

For now, Rōki Sasaki remains one of the Dodgers’ most reliable arms—but for how long that’s his only role remains unclear.

Whether or not he gets the green light to step into the batter’s box, one thing is certain: Sasaki isn’t content being just another pitcher. He wants more—and he’s not alone.

As MLB wrestles with the future of its game and stars continue to push boundaries, fans may be witnessing the dawn of a new era—where players aren’t just athletes, but icons capable of redefining what’s possible.