Sasaki’s current team, the Chiba Lotte Marines of Japan’s Nippon Professional, are highly unlikely to grant his request before the league’s December 15 posting deadline. However, it’s a significant development as it signals that the 22-year-old pitching sensation is eager to jump to the majors, which could certainly expedite his stateside timeline. It’s highly unlikely that he’ll wind up being posted this offseason, but he’s one of the most exciting international prospects in decades, which makes this a developing situation fantasy managers should monitor closely.