Roki Sasaki, the promising right-handed pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers, has faced setbacks in his recovery from a right shoulder injury that sidelined him since May. During his first rehab start with the Triple-A Oklahoma City team on Thursday, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts noted a surprising drop in Sasaki’s fastball velocity compared to previous simulated sessions.
While Sasaki’s fastball had recently reached 97 mph in controlled pitches at Dodger Stadium, it slowed to 93-94 mph during the outing, prompting caution from Roberts.
“I wouldn’t say I’m worried, but it’s expected to get to 90 degrees. But it was his first time, and I want to talk to him personally to learn a little more about it. But yeah, it was a little surprising,”
—Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager
Background and Development of Sasaki’s Injury
Sasaki’s shoulder issues began to affect his season when he was placed on the injured list on May 13 due to a right shoulder impingement, later moving to the 60-day injured list in June. Before the injury, Sasaki’s performance had been inconsistent, with a 4.72 ERA across 34.1 innings and 24 strikeouts. His return attempt in simulated settings also displayed struggles, as he allowed six hits and three runs over two innings, throwing 41 pitches.
“Once he gets back to town, we’ll know when he’s going to pitch again,”
—Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager
Roberts noted that Sasaki is still working through adjustments and gaining confidence, highlighting the physical changes and new approach the pitcher is adapting to during rehabilitation.
“It’s more physical. I know he’s put on weight. The pitching wasn’t as ‘shoulder to shoulder’. I think it was a little cleaner. He was still looking, asking the pitching coaches some things. And that’s what people do,”
—Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager
When Sasaki Could Rejoin the Dodgers’ Active Roster
The Dodgers are holding off on setting a return date for Sasaki until he feels fully comfortable and can deliver his pitches confidently. Roberts emphasized the importance of Sasaki regaining trust in his mechanics before facing hitters in an official game. Despite the cautious approach, Sasaki showed some promise in his short rehab outing, which lasted three innings.
With the MLB season progressing and the playoff race intensifying, the Dodgers remain hopeful that Sasaki can return in time to contribute to the starting rotation. His presence could bolster their pitching depth as they aim to maintain their lead in the National League West Division.
Recently, the Dodgers swept the San Diego Padres, marking their first series sweep in over 40 days and temporarily reclaiming the division lead. Looking ahead, they prepare for a four-day series against the Colorado Rockies in Denver, hoping to extend their advantage against a struggling opponent.