### Chicago Cubs to Pursue Japanese Pitcher Roki Sasaki Despite Slim Chances

The Chicago Cubs are gearing up to make a bid for Japanese baseball sensation Roki Sasaki during the upcoming International Free Agency period. While it was always anticipated that the Cubs would attempt to secure the 23-year-old's signature, their chance of success remains minimal, much like any team not named the Dodgers. Despite these long odds, the Cubs are undeterred and will aim to at least make a compelling pitch to the star athlete.

Sasaki, known for his transformative potential, is set to be a highly sought-after name due to his talent and the relatively low cost of an international signing bonus. While a signing is not guaranteed, the Cubs have established a reputation for making impressive sales presentations. Their efforts in the past have left a favorable impression on other Japanese players like Shohei Ohtani, Seiya Suzuki, and Shōta Imanaga. Additionally, former Cubs player Yu Darvish has spoken highly of his tenure with the team, which may prove beneficial in attracting Sasaki.

There are several factors to consider in this competitive landscape. Firstly, the Cubs are known for their successful integration of international players, making the adjustment process smoother and more appealing. This experience could place them on equal footing with other top contenders, aside from the heavily favored Dodgers.

The process of signing Sasaki involves strict timelines. Once officially posted, Sasaki will have 45 days to finalize a deal. The agreement must be made official by either December 15, 2024, or January 15, 2025, depending on the signing class. Teams have hard-capped bonus pools for these periods, but flexibility exists as some funds can be acquired through trades, and preliminary handshake deals may be adjusted if necessary.

In conclusion, while the Chicago Cubs' prospects of landing Roki Sasaki remain slim, their reputation and previous successes in attracting international talent could give them a fighting chance. As the signing period approaches, all eyes will be on the Cubs to see if they can secure the next big star in baseball.