Breaking Down Roki Sasaki’s First Start and What This Could Mean for the Future

After capturing their eighth World Series title last year, the Los Angeles Dodgers knew they had to make key offseason moves to sustain their success. One of their biggest acquisitions was Japanese pitching phenom Roki Sasaki. Already regarded as MLB’s top prospect, Sasaki is expected to play a major role in the Dodgers' rotation for years to come. The big question remains: How well will Roki Sasaki perform in his first MLB season? Sasaki dominated the NPB, consistently posting 100-strikeout seasons and multiple years with an ERA under 2.00. However, last season, he struggled with injuries and saw a dip in his fastball velocity, leading to a 2.35 ERA. Recognizing this, the Dodgers implemented a specialized training program during the offseason to help Sasaki regain his 2023 form, where he averaged 99 mph on his fastball while staying healthy. Early results suggest progress is being made.

On March 4th, Roki Sasaki impressed in his spring training debut against the Cincinnati Reds, tossing three scoreless innings while allowing just two hits and one walk with five strikeouts. The most encouraging sign was his velocity—his first pitch clocked in at 99.2 mph, with multiple other fastballs reaching 99 mph. This was the first time Sasaki had hit that velocity all spring, signaling a return to his elite form. If Roki Sasaki can consistently command his fastball while effectively mixing in his devastating splitter and slider, he has the potential to post a strikeouts-per-nine rate over ten in his rookie campaign.

Roki Sasaki won’t have much time to settle in, as the Dodgers begin their season early with the Tokyo Series against the Chicago Cubs on March 18-19th. Sasaki is expected to start the second game in front of a home-country crowd in Japan. Fortunately, he has experience on the big stage, having pitched for Japan in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, including a crucial semifinal start against Mexico where he allowed three runs over five innings. Given the Dodgers' pitching depth, Sasaki will likely be on an innings restriction this season, as Los Angeles is expected to employ a six-man rotation. With his velocity returning and his MLB debut fast approaching, all eyes will be on Roki Sasaki as he looks to make an immediate impact in the Majors.