Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki (11) throws in the bullpen during spring training camp.
Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Roki Sasaki revealed his thoughts after his first start in spring training this year.
Sasaki spent most of last season on the injured list, making his final start of the year in may 2025. He returned as a relief arm, and performed well above expectations for the end of the season and the playoffs.
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He struggled in his first start back, though, as he allowed three runs through 1.1 innings pitched on three hits and two walks. Despite those struggles, though, he managed three strikeouts and topped out at 98.6 mph with his fastball.
“There were some positive things, but also things I need to work on,” Sasaki said.
“In the bullpen, I felt pretty good about the forkball but once I got on the mound, it didn’t go well. And the four-seam, I felt pretty good in the bullpen but once I got on the mound, it felt a little off.”
Feb 13, 2026; Glendale, AZ, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki (11) throws in the bullpen during spring training camp. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Sasaki historically had issues with starting games, as his eight MLB starts last season yielded a 4.72 ERA. He will have plenty of time with the Dodgers’ camp heading into his sophomore season, as he will not be participating in the 2026 WBC with Team Japan.
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The team is yet to reveal when his next start will be, but the young right-hander will be looking to bounce back and claim a spot in the rotation in the upcoming year.
The post Roki Sasaki Opens Up on First Start Since May 2025 appeared first on LA Sports Report.