Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts remains cautious about the timing of Roki Sasaki’s return, following the pitcher’s simulated game on Friday. Sasaki, who has been sidelined with a right shoulder impingement since April, is gradually progressing toward rejoining the team before the season ends, though Roberts suggests additional steps are needed.
Roberts noted that the next phase involves a minor league rehab assignment to help Sasaki regain full readiness. Although the rookie’s recent performance showed promise, Roberts is waiting for him to regain full confidence in his pitching mechanics before facing major league hitters regularly again.
Assessing Sasaki’s Physical Condition and Performance
Roberts highlighted improvements in Sasaki’s physical condition, noting that the pitcher had gained weight and his throwing motion appeared cleaner than before. “The throw wasn’t as ‘shoulder-y,’” Roberts said.
“He was still kind of searching, as far as asking the pitching coaches some things. And that’s kind of what people do.”
He added that the team is monitoring Sasaki to ensure he reaches a level of comfort and confidence in his delivery necessary for effective pitching.
“We’re not there yet. But I thought for a three-inning situation, it was solid,”
Roberts remarked.
Insights from Dodgers’ Alex Call on Sasaki’s Simulated Appearance
During the simulated game, Sasaki’s fastball clocked around 97 mph against catcher Alex Call and two minor leaguers. Call, who observed Sasaki’s pitching through virtual reality technology, praised the rookie’s unique splitter and fastball velocity.
“He looked good,” Call commented.
“I did watch him for a couple pitches on the Oculus (virtual reality technology) to see what I was going to get. Just more for timing and release point, things like that. His splitter was something that was special. Had a very unique spin, a disguised spin almost, and some of them had a cut action too. Some went down, some went away. I thought he looked good. Fastball was there.”
—Alex Call, Dodgers Catcher
Roki Sasaki’s Performance Before Injury
Before his injury, Sasaki had made eight starts this season but faced challenges adjusting to Major League Baseball. His 4.72 ERA over 34.1 innings suggests he struggled to replicate his dominant strikeout ability from Japan’s NPB, recording only 24 strikeouts in that span.
Despite this, the Dodgers remain hopeful that Sasaki can recover fully and return as a key piece in their rotation during the final stretch of the regular season.
Implications for Dodgers’ Playoff Race
The Dodgers are contending with the San Diego Padres, who trail by just three games in the competitive NL West division. A healthy Sasaki could provide a significant boost to an already strong pitching staff as the Dodgers aim to solidify their playoff position heading into October.
Sasaki’s comeback, if managed carefully, may enhance the Dodgers’ chances in the divisional race and postseason, adding depth and versatility to the roster.