The Los Angeles Dodgers are currently managing multiple injuries within their starting pitching staff, including six pitchers on the injured list and Shohei Ohtani still not ready to pitch. Amid these setbacks, any progress in a pitcher’s recovery is significant, making the latest update on Roki Sasaki especially important. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts recently shared that Sasaki is scheduled to begin a throwing progression next week, marking a crucial step toward his return to game action.
This update was originally reported by Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic, who quoted Roberts stating,
Dave Roberts said Roki Sasaki will start a throwing progression next week, a first step in him ramping back up.
—Fabian Ardaya, Journalist
Implications of Sasaki’s Progress for the Dodgers’ Rotation
Sasaki’s advancement toward recovery is notably promising for the Dodgers, who have faced challenges keeping their starters healthy. While pitchers like Clayton Kershaw and Tony Gonsolin have returned, others remain sidelined. Blake Snell is on the 60-day injured list, and Tyler Glasnow is only just resuming mound work following a setback in late April. With Sasaki nearing readiness, the team could soon regain a critical arm in its rotation.
Since joining the Dodgers, Sasaki has had a difficult start to his Major League career. Over his first eight starts, he recorded a 4.72 ERA with a 1-1 win-loss record. Pitching for 34.1 innings, he struck out 24 batters but also walked 22, indicating struggles with command that have impacted his effectiveness.
Path Forward: Recovery and Performance Expectations
Sasaki’s current recovery stems from a shoulder issue that had sidelined him, and regaining command is central to improving his performance. The initiation of his throwing progression suggests that his rehabilitation is proceeding well. For the Dodgers, having Sasaki back at full strength could provide a valuable boost to their rotation as they navigate through a challenging stretch of injuries.
Given the context of Los Angeles’ pitching difficulties, Sasaki’s return might also allow the team more flexibility in handling their roster and could encourage improved outcomes on the mound moving forward.