Shohei Ohtani broke the news to the Los Angeles Dodgers that prized Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki was joining the team. Ohtani sent a text to Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman even before Sasaki's agent informed the club.

Roki Sasaki signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers broke the baseball world, albeit momentarily. It's tough to blame Andrew Friedman and Co. for taking advantage

Less than a week after announcing he would sign with the Dodgers in one this offseason's major free agency coups, Roki Sasaki was officially introduced by the team.

Los Angeles Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman dismissed talk of having a pre-arranged deal with Roki Sasaki."There's going to be noise, it's so ridiculous," Friedman said during a radio interview on AM 570 LA Sports.

No one in Dodger blue was apologizing Wednesday, when the Dodgers introduced pitcher Roki Sasaki at a news conference.

The Los Angeles Dodgers cemented their status as Major League Baseball's new "Evil Empire" this offseason with a raft of acquisitions that position the team as favorites to repeat as World Series champions.

Sasaki said he prioritized joining a team that would embrace a Japanese player, but explained that there were other reasons why he ultimately chose the Dodgers.

The Los Angeles Dodgers still plan on making one more starting pitching addition this offseason, says general manager Brandon Gomes.

Japanese phenom Roki Sasaki was officially introduced as a member of the Los Angeles Dodgers on Wednesday. The 23-year-old discussed a variety of topics, including his motivation in joining the Dodgers in free agency. More news: Former Dodgers All-Star, Fan Favorite Open to Return to LA in Potential Blockbuster Signing

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Japanese baseball prodigy Roki Sasaki issued a pledge of solidarity on Wednesday as he was formally unveiled by the Los Angeles Dodgers after signing with the World Series champions.

Ohtani sent a text to Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman even before Sasaki’s agent informed the club.