Some moments in life simply feel destined. For Roki Sasaki, March has always been a month of fate. Sometimes cruel, sometimes winning, but this month has always been defining.

Fourteen years ago, in March, Sasaki’s world came to a standstill when the Japan earthquake took the lives of his father and his grandparents. Not just that, his house was destroyed. Then two years ago, in the same month, he made his national team debut that too at the Tokyo Dome. He played alongside his now-teammate Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto in Japan’s World Baseball Classic and even won.

Now on March 19, at the very same stadium, Sasaki will take on another major step in his career—his MLB debut against the Chicago Cubs. And all he is thankful for is his fans, for their unwavering support.

Sasaki mentioned, “There were many times when things weren’t going well, but I was able to receive a lot of support from the fans, who were always cheering me on with the same enthusiasm, and that really gave me strength. I hope to be able to show that kind of support by expressing it in my play.”

And it is true, the fans have been a lifeline to the star in the making. He had been drafted by four teams before he joined Lotte. But Roki Sasaki had faced plenty of setbacks and missed his first year entirely because of his injury. But when he stepped foot, he made history. In 2022, he had a perfect game, and then in 2023, a 102.5 h fastball. And now a chance to be a global icon.

There were lows, of course, and the media spectacle created with Sasaki wanting to come to MLB sooner than later is not unknown. However, all in all, the fans stood by the highs and lows every time. And now that he has stepped into MLB, their beliefs are unchanged, and their love is something Sasaki felt during the recent exhibition games against the Yomiuri Giants.

Sasaki said, “There were a lot of spectators, and the atmosphere was wonderful. As the day I pitched approached, I think I was getting more nervous, so I want to get rid of any anxiety I can now and prepare well.” The fans are more than excited. The month of March is his, and a strong debut sure seems on the horizon. Not just fans but insiders and the team have faith in him.

High expectations for Roki Sasaki as he steps onto the MLB Stage

Los Angeles Dodgers’ Dave Roberts isn’t one to hand out praise easily or lightly. So when he speaks highly of a player, one knows he has earned it. And he is excited for Roki Sasaki’s debut. “He earned the spot. I’m very proud of him. For a young player to pitch for the Dodgers he’s talented, and we’re excited to have him,” said Dave Roberts. And this praise is not without reason.

Sasaki’s spring training performances have turned heads. Just recently against the Cleveland Guardians, he went four innings and threw 41 pitches. He allowed just one hit and two walks and picked up two strikeouts. He also tossed seven scoreless innings this spring. Given this is his first outing, it is a promising aspect. And it’s not just his team that has high praise.

Doug McKain didn’t hold back, saying, “He’s not only going to win Rookie of the Year, but I predict he’ll finish top five in Cy Young voting.” This is a huge statement, but it’s not hard to see why people believe that Sasaki will do great. In Japan, the 23-year-old was a massive success.

For Roki Sasaki, though, this isn’t just about stats and awards; it’s always personal, “To be able to pitch in Japan is a really special and unique opportunity. Playing in the major leagues is something I’ve worked for a long time to do. I’m really excited.” One thing is for sure: all eyes will be on him.

Do you think Sasaki will be the next big thing in MLB? Let us know in the comments.