Philadelphia Phillies Sign Japanese All-Star Pitcher After Roki Sasaki Rejection
The Philadelphia Phillies have signed Koyo Aoyagi, a former All-Star pitcher from Japan, after their attempt to sign Roki Sasaki was unsuccessful. Sasaki, a 23-year-old phenom known as “The Monster of the Reiwa Era,” declined to meet with the Phillies despite the team reaching out to his representatives. While the Phillies had no success in securing Sasaki, the pitcher ultimately signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers after meeting with other teams, including the New York Mets.
Looking to bolster their pitching staff, the Phillies have now signed Aoyagi to a minor-league contract and will invite him to spring training as a non-roster player. Aoyagi, known for his unique sidearm delivery, is expected to compete for a bullpen spot. He has a four-pitch mix, including an 87-91 mph fastball, slider, split-changeup, and cutter.
In his nine years with the Hanshin Tigers, Aoyagi appeared in 154 games, posting a 61-47 record with a 3.08 ERA and 647 strikeouts. He was a key part of the Tigers’ Japan Series championship in 2023, starting Game 7 and pitching 4⅔ scoreless innings.
Phillies assistant general manager Jorge Velandia praised Aoyagi’s versatility, noting his experience as both a starter and reliever. If Aoyagi makes the team, he would be the first Japanese player on the Phillies since 2008 and the third overall.
The team still has one bullpen spot open, so Aoyagi will face competition for a roster spot by Opening Day.
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