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By high school, Sasaki was already rewriting the books; his fastball reached astonishing speeds, breaking records previously set by seasoned professionals including Ohtani. This drew the attention of numerous scouts, all eager for a glimpse of the burgeoning prodigy. Yet Sasaki chose a deliberate path, staying home to develop his skills at a pace that suited him, further enhancing his mystique and fame.
Making History in the NPB
In 2019, following intense competition among professional baseball teams in Japan, Sasaki signed with the Chiba Lotte Marines. His debut, initially postponed to protect him from overuse, ignited intense anticipation and he did not disappoint. With every appearance, he seemed to defy the laws of physics—his pitches were not merely fast; they were electrifying.