​Japanese slugger Rintaro Sasaki reportedly makes Marlins, NPB decision originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.With the 235th pick in the 2026 MLB Draft, the Miami Marlins selected Japan’s all-time high school home run leader.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThat title belongs to first baseman Rintaro Sasaki, who played two seasons of college baseball at Stanford.The Japanese slugger’s improved offensive numbers (16 HR, .952 OPS) in his sophomore year helped him land with the Marlins.But Sasaki’s draft rights were also held by Nippon Professional Baseball’s Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks in Japan.Sasaki had a decision to make. Sign with the Marlins or return to his home country to play with the Hawks.Apparently, his mind is made up.”Rintaro Sasaki has reportedly elected to sign with the Miami Marlins,” Yakyu Cosmopolitan wrote on X.The initial report came from SANSPO, a daily newspaper in Japan.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementSasaki’s decision will probably cost him hundreds of thousands of dollars.MORE: How Jordan Walker overcame the bust labelIf he manages to have a longer Major League career and sign large contracts, the left-handed hitter won’t regret this decision.Sasaki became a larger-than-life figure at Stanford. He skipped the NPB Draft to come to the United States and play college baseball.The Marlins hope he brings similar power and flair to the organization.Rintaro Sasaki has a big choice to make between MLB and NPBCC Sabathia’s son gets drafted by one of his former teamsAfter 9 years in the minor leagues, a magical moment for Tigers catcherHow Rays turned Tim Beckham bust draft pick into Junior CamineroBarry Bonds’ nephew has a chance to be key pick in 2026 MLB Draft