The Los Angeles Dodgers and pitcher Roki Sasaki went through a massive learning experience in 2025, his first season in America and with the organization.
Sasaki came in as one of the most hyped overseas prospects ever, with an electric fastball and a disgusting splitter, but his rookie year was not a smooth ride.
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He had a rough start, followed by an extended stint on the injured list, and concluded with a starring role as a reliever in the postseason.
However, the franchise has put its arms around Sasaki, and they are confident that he can be a starting pitcher in MLB.
Mar 3, 2026; Goodyear, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Roki Sasaki (11) leaves the game against the Cleveland Guardians during the first inning at Goodyear Ballpark. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Sasaki has a reported cavalier approach to his own development, and the Dodgers let him do his own thing during his first year, seemingly not having clear communication and adjusting to his personality.
Katie Woo of The Athletic broke down the nature of his relationship with the Dodgers and where both parties are at.
“I wouldn’t say there was a wall between Sasaki’s camp and the Dodgers. I do think there was a learning curve for both parties,” Woo wrote.
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“When a player comes in from overseas, there can be communication mix-ups, especially regarding usage and health.
“The front office has indicated the team has a much better understanding of Sasaki and how he operates. Sasaki seems to be more open to team feedback, such as a willingness to add a third pitch.”
As Woo notes, Sasaki has indeed worked on a third pitch, which he unveiled in spring training. It is a cutter that has horizontal movement, complementing his splitter, which has vertical movement.
His willingness to take feedback is a positive development, and it shows that even though Sasaki took some time to warm up, he feels comfortable with the team.
Dave Roberts’s support of Sasaki
Sasaki has been shaky during his first starts of spring training, but manager Dave Roberts still backs him as a starter and will have a spot in the rotation.
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“I just don’t see a world where he doesn’t break (camp) with us as a starter,” Roberts said.
“I’m betting on the performance to continue to trend up, to be good enough (to be in the rotation), and to only get better with the talent that he has and the work that he’s put in.”
With the support Sasaki is receiving, his second season presents a clear opportunity to demonstrate to both the organization and himself that their trust is well placed.