The Chicago Cubs are getting ready for a big change, and they might have a great strategy to attract Japanese talent Roki Sasaki to their team on the North Side. Amidst trade rumors and off-season moves of a familiar face. Seiya Suzuki, already a key contributor for the Cubs, emerged as a crucial figure in their efforts to sign Sasaki, Japan’s most anticipated pitching prospect.

Suzuki has proven his value as both a hitter and outfield player since he transitioned from Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball League to the Cubs in 2022. His role could now be pivotal for the team, as he might act as a connection to persuade Sasaki to move to Major League Baseball. Roki Sasaki, standing tall at 6 feet 6 inches, has already impressed many with his pitching and splitter skills. The Cubs are excited to upgrade their pitching team and attract a top-tier player; they understand that convincing Sasaki to join will require more than offering a paycheck.

A strategic move to Lure Roki Sasaki

According to MLB’s Jordan Bastian, on the final day of the Winter Meetings, the president of baseball operations for the Cubs, Jed Hoyer, said that “his team has already submitted their initial presentation to Sasaki and his agent, Joel Wolfe. The Cubs have another Wolfe client, outfielder Seiya Suzuki, in the fold, along with Japanese lefty Shota Imanaga.” Moreover, Hoyer noted, “Seiya and Shota have had really good experiences, I think we’re an appealing destination for any Japanese player.”

Suzuki’s role goes beyond being a teammate. He’s the Cubs’ ambassador to a Japanese baseball star who has yet to make the leap to the majors. The Cubs are well aware that Roki Sasaki, like many Japanese players before him, values a strong connection to his homeland and the players who share that background. The cultural and linguistic connection between them could be the edge the Cubs need, especially in a market where international relationships can make or break negotiations.

Chicago’s front office recognizes that signing Roki Sasaki isn’t just about offering a lucrative contract. It’s about creating an environment where Sasaki feels comfortable and supported. Suzuki, already familiar with the nuances of adapting to MLB, can serve as a mentor and a guide. This personal touch could be a deciding factor in Sasaki’s choice of team.

Now, while the Cubs are still eyeing other potential moves, such as bolstering their bullpen or pursuing big-name trades, Suzuki stands as their wildcard in the race for Sasaki. With a strong 2024 season under his belt, Suzuki’s continued performance could be pivotal in convincing Sasaki that Chicago’s North Side is the place for him.

The importance of international connections in MLB

In today’s MLB landscape, building connections is key for team development. Teams are now scouting talent from countries such as Japan, the Dominican Republic, and Venezuela, underscoring the importance of bridging language divides in player recruitment. Having an international presence on the roster not only enriches the pool of talent but also supports foreign players in adjusting to life in the big leagues. As for the players, specifically having a figure or an individual who grasps the subtleties of their native culture can greatly assist in smoothing the shift to MLB.

For the Cubs, cultivating these international relationships is part of a larger strategy to attract top-tier talent like Sasaki. Seiya Suzuki’s role on the team goes beyond his performance on the field; his connection to Japanese players offers a unique advantage. Roki Sasaki, considering a move to MLB, would likely feel more comfortable joining a team where he has Suzuki as a mentor.

This kind of cultural and personal support is often the deciding factor for international players when choosing their next destination, making Chicago a more appealing choice. In the end, as the MLB continues to grow its global reach, these international connections will remain crucial for teams looking to stay competitive in an increasingly international league.