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Dodgers favored for Japanese phenom Shoki Oda
12 Nov
Summary
- Oda, an 18-year-old Japanese pitcher, is a top prospect.
- Multiple MLB teams have met with Oda's representatives.
- A CBA expiration could delay Oda's signing.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are reportedly leading the race to sign Japanese pitching prospect Shoki Oda. The 18-year-old right-hander is widely regarded as the top high school talent in his home country. Oda has reportedly met with numerous Major League Baseball teams, including the Yankees, Tigers, and Phillies.
Despite being selected by the Tokyo Giants in the Nippon Professional Baseball draft, Oda has expressed his strong desire to begin his professional career in the United States. This ambition is not expected to change even with former MLB star Hideki Matsui managing the Giants. Oda is represented by the same company that facilitated moves for Roki Sasaki and Yoshinobu Yamamoto to MLB.
However, a significant hurdle for any immediate signing is the potential for a work stoppage. Baseball's collective bargaining agreement is set to expire on December 1st. If a new agreement is not ratified before this date, Oda would be unable to sign with a team until the lockout concludes.
