The New York Yankees have witnessed a surreal start to the 2024 MLB season with a thumping series win against the Houston Astros. They currently lead AL-East this early into the season for the first time since 2003. Needless to say, the roster balance has come together nicely this year.
However, despite a positive start, the New York Yankees’ doors are open for a pitching upgrade. Since Gerrit Cole got sidelined due to an elbow injury, the team’s starting rotation hasn’t looked the same. The club is relying on prospect Luis Gil for the fifth starter’s role. However, recent rumors suggest the front office has expanded its search to hunt down the best pitcher available.
Yankees, Dodgers Amongst 8 Interested Teams For NPB Star Roki Sasaki!
The New York Yankees’ love for NPB pitchers is no longer a secret. Brian Cashman and Co. traveled all the way to Japan last season to scout Yoshinobu Yamamoto, only to see him opt for LA Dodgers in the off-season. Regardless, the Yanks’ hopes are not lost at all. A recent report from SNY’s Andy Martino suggests the Bronx Bombers are amongst the eight teams currently scouting for NPB top performer Roki Sasaki. The 22-year-old pitcher is currently one of the finest throwers in NPB with a 2.00 ERA with 376 strikeouts in over 283 innings across three seasons. Moreover, Martino states that Sasaki intended to transcend into MLB this year alongside Yamamoto.
However, Roki Sasaki changed his mind at the last minute due to complications with the MLB posting rules and resigned from Chiba Lotte Marines. That being said, the plan to leap into MLB is only delayed and not shelved. Sasaki plans on getting posted next year, and therefore, MLB teams have lined up to scout the pitcher. Andy Martino states in his report that the New York Yankees, New York Mets, LA Dodgers, and LA Angels are few of the many teams interested in Sasaki. While the competition is stiff, Martino anticipated Roki to eventually choose the Dodgers, given the Japanese background connection with Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Regardless, these are mere speculations for now. It remains to be seen when Roki Sasaki will enter MLB and if he would be willing to listen to all offers before making a final decision.
Jon Berti Leaves Noticeable Impact On Pinstripes Debut Vs Astros!
In the aftermath of DJ LeMahieu’s foot injury, the New York Yankees added infield depth in the form of Jon Berti. The front office traded him from Miami Marlins in a three-team trade just hours before opening day. Naturally, Berti couldn’t join the camp on time as he debut was delayed by two days.
Nevertheless, Anthony Volpe’s stomach bug paved the way for Jon Berti at third base, and the infielder immediately left his mark. Berti drove an RBI single to guide the Yankees to an early lead in a 5-3 win over the Houston Astros in the series finale. Eventually, the Bronx Bombers won the game conformably to seal the series 3-0.
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