Part 5/8:
As 2023 began, Sasaki continued to escalate expectations, clocking pitches at 102.5 mph—tying the record for the fastest pitch by a Japanese player in NPB history. Despite skeptics questioning his capabilities in the MLB, Sasaki silenced them during the World Baseball Classic. His performances, particularly against Mexico, showcased not just speed but control, leading many to regard him as a generational talent.