Roberts: Roki Sasaki's rehab game fell short of expectations; must feel urgency to return to starting rotation

On the 3rd, Dodgers’ Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki pitched 5 innings in a Triple-A rehab game, allowing 4 runs and taking the loss. Manager Dave Roberts acknowledged that his outing did not meet expectations and seriously remarked, “To return to the starting rotation, he must show overwhelming dominance. He should be aware of the pressure now!”

This year, Roki Sasaki has been attempting to break into the majors, but his pitch velocity has gradually dropped. In May, he was placed on the injured list due to right shoulder impingement syndrome. On August 15, he made his first rehab appearance in Triple-A, though he is still working on regaining full form. On September 3, Sasaki pitched again, starting 5 innings and allowing 4 runs, with his fastball averaging about 152 kilometers per hour. In four Triple-A appearances this year, he has suffered two losses and holds a high ERA of 7.07.

In an interview, Roberts said that Sasaki’s pitch effectiveness in the rehab game did not meet the team’s expectations, but he did praise him for completing 5 innings. He revealed that the pitching coach felt Sasaki’s pitching content was decent, though there is still room for improvement in his condition. “As for what comes next, there is no definite plan yet.” Previously, Sasaki said, “I’ve tried many things, but haven’t achieved the results I wanted.”

Roberts emphasized that Sasaki’s talent is unquestionable, but “his actual performance hasn’t kept pace; both his pitch effectiveness and velocity need to improve, and he himself should feel the urgency.” Roberts believes Sasaki still has a way to go before returning to the majors. “Facing Triple-A hitters, he should produce better outcomes. This is a crucial time as the team competes for the division title. If he wants to break into the starting rotation, he must deliver dominating performances.”