Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki has had mixed results in his first major league season thus far. In eight appearances with the Dodgers this campaign, he has a 1-1 record, a 4.72 ERA, and 24 strikeouts. Overall, he has shown flashes of promise at times but has struggled with consistency.
His last start on Friday against the Arizona Diamondbacks is a clear example of this. In four innings pitched against the Diamondbacks, the 23-year-old starter allowed five earned runs on two walks and five hits. He also surrendered two home runs in the start.
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One criticism that Sasaki has faced in his first season with the Dodgers is his noticeably lower velocity. While this has created concern among Dodgers fans, manager Dave Roberts made it abundantly clear that he is not worried about Sasaki’s velocity but rather his control.
Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Roki Sasaki (11) pitches against the Atlanta Braves during the first inning at Truist Park.Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
“Because if you don’t have velocity when you’re talking 98, 99, then command becomes more of a priority. When you’re throwing mid-90s, 94, then you have to really command the baseball,” Roberts said. “So, that’s what we’re going to work on as a group. Roki understands that. This is still his first season here, so there has to be some grace, as he’s kind of learning this league and kind of getting his footing.”
It is understandable that Roberts’ biggest focus with Sasaki right now is his control. In addition, it makes sense that the Dodgers manager is remaining patient with Sasaki, as he is naturally still adjusting to the major league level.
It will be intriguing to see how Sasaki responds after his tough start and Roberts’ comments from here.
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