Roki Sasaki rises as Dodgers’ secret weapon ahead of playoff push
As the Los Angeles Dodgers gear up for a postseason run, they are on the verge of breaking a longstanding MLB curse: winning consecutive championships. While the quest for back-to-back titles seems straightforward, the reality is fraught with challenges. With the playoffs looming, the Dodgers face significant roster decisions, and one of the most intriguing names in the mix is rookie pitcher Roki Sasaki.
A Transformative Moment for Sasaki
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expressed his excitement over Sasaki’s recent performances, noting a marked transformation in the young pitcher’s demeanor. “He looked like a different person,” Roberts stated, highlighting the newfound confidence that Sasaki has displayed on the mound.
Earlier in the season, Sasaki struggled to find his footing as a starter before succumbing to an injury in May. When he returned, he was sent to the minors, where his prospects appeared dim. At one point, it seemed inevitable that he would not factor into the Dodgers’ postseason plans. Reports indicated that the team could no longer rely on Sasaki, especially given that his velocity had dipped significantly from the 102 mph he consistently hit in Japan. In his two rehab starts, he managed just one swing-and-miss from 59 fastballs thrown.
A Strategic Shift to the Bullpen
The Dodgers made a pivotal decision to transition Sasaki from the starting rotation to the bullpen. This move came just in time for the final week of the regular season, and Sasaki seized the opportunity to shine. His initial relief appearances were promising enough that the team chose to shut him down momentarily to preserve his arm for the postseason.
Sasaki pitched on one day of rest following his latest outing, with prior relief appearances spaced out by two days. However, with the regular season nearing its end, Roberts confirmed that Sasaki would not feature in the final two games.
Earning Trust for October
The lingering question was whether Sasaki had done enough to secure a spot on the postseason roster. Roberts seemed optimistic in his assessment of the rookie’s capabilities, stating, “The way he threw, the big games he’s pitched in before, that’s something I can trust.”
After a challenging season filled with uncertainty, Sasaki has managed to carve out a potential playoff role when it matters most. His resurgence serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, especially when faced with daunting odds. With this role change, Roberts now sees Sasaki as a reliable option, providing a subtle yet impactful boost to the Dodgers’ October aspirations.
As the Dodgers continue their pursuit of another championship, the emergence of Roki Sasaki could prove to be a game-changer in their quest for glory.
