Roki Sasaki's Spring Training Struggles: A Test for the Dodgers' Faith

Roki Sasaki, the 24-year-old right-hander for the Los Angeles Dodgers, has faced significant challenges during the early stages of the 2026 spring training. In his first two Cactus League starts, Sasaki struggled with control and command, leading to disappointing results. In his most recent outing against the Cleveland Guardians, he pitched two-plus innings, allowing four runs, two hits, and three walks, while striking out two batters. His earned run average (ERA) now stands at 18.90 across 3.1 innings pitched this spring.

Despite Sasaki's rocky performances, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has expressed confidence in the young pitcher. Roberts indicated that Sasaki is expected to be one of the team's starting pitchers come opening day, emphasizing the need to build him up rather than consider a shift to the bullpen at this stage. "I think it can change, but I don't think it's going to change before we break camp," Roberts stated, underscoring the team's commitment to giving Sasaki every opportunity for success.

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Sasaki himself has remained optimistic, attributing his control issues to mechanical flaws in his delivery. After recognizing that his upper body was leaning too far toward third base, he made adjustments that improved his performance in the second inning of his latest game. "When I fixed that, my breaking balls and fastball started going over the plate," he explained. Despite acknowledging the poor results, he noted that he felt better about his pitching mechanics and velocity, averaging 98.0 mph on his fastball.

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Sasaki's difficulties with control are particularly perplexing given his prior success in Japan, where he averaged fewer than two walks per nine innings. Roberts speculated that the difference in command may stem from the higher caliber of hitters in Major League Baseball. "I just feel the hitters here are better, top to bottom," Roberts remarked, highlighting the challenges Sasaki faces in adapting to the MLB environment.

As the Dodgers aim for a third consecutive championship, the pressure is on Sasaki to demonstrate improvement. He recognizes the importance of gaining experience and confidence in a major league setting, stating, "What I’m lacking right now are experiences of success." While the team remains committed to his development as a starter, the possibility of a temporary move to the bullpen looms if his struggles continue.

• “When I’m doing well, my speed and control are good anywhere,” — Roki Sasaki, Pitcher, Los Angeles Dodgers

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• “I think major league command is different,” — Dave Roberts, Manager, Los Angeles Dodgers

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• “What I’m lacking right now are experiences of success,” — Roki Sasaki, Pitcher, Los Angeles Dodgers

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Roki Sasaki's spring training has been marked by inconsistency and challenges, prompting both concern and hope within the Dodgers organization. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, Sasaki's ability to adapt and improve will be crucial for his role in the starting rotation. The Dodgers are betting on his potential, but the pressure to deliver results is mounting.