Dodgers Head Coach: Roki Sasaki Should Be Able to Dominate Triple-A; Team Standards Are High Now

Previously, Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts mentioned that Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki, currently on the injured list, was aiming to return by the end of August. However, today marks the final day of August in the U.S., and Sasaki will continue pitching in rehab games at Triple-A. Roberts said they hope to see more consistent performances from him.

So far, Sasaki has pitched 9 innings over 3 Triple-A rehab games, recording 6 strikeouts and 6 walks, allowing 14 hits and 8 runs (7 earned), with even his pitch velocity failing to stay consistent. Even for rehab games, these results invite scrutiny. Roberts himself said, “Of course, the focus differs between the major leagues and Triple-A, but I still believe that for him, we expect a dominant showing against Triple-A hitters.”

Sasaki’s minor league rehab is scheduled to last only two more weeks if no setbacks occur. Roberts stated that Sasaki is expected to pitch again this week in Triple-A, aiming to go 5 innings. “He needs to maintain stable pitching and perform well at this stage. Our current starters are pitching very well, so the standards are high. This is a great learning opportunity for Sasaki; the key is to keep attacking the strike zone, control his pitches, and show progress.”

Roberts emphasized that stability means maintaining consistent velocity and reliably throwing strikes. “Everything needs to be well controlled.” He also added, “This year is a learning experience for Sasaki, and he’s very talented. But as a pitcher, success comes from controlling the ball, getting ahead in the count, and pitching efficiently.”