ROKI SASAKI STRUGGLES THROUGH SPRING TRAINING, BUT DODGERS REMAIN CONFIDENT IN HIS FUTURE

🚨BREAKING NEWS: Roki Sasaki’s 2026 spring training performance has raised concerns, but the Los Angeles Dodgers remain steadfast in their belief that the young right-hander will succeed in their Opening Day rotation. Despite an uneven performance during his first season and inconsistent outings this spring, the Dodgers’ front office and coaching staff are committed to Sasaki’s development at the major-league level.

Sasaki’s rookie season with the Dodgers was a mixed bag, as he struggled as a starter but found redemption with a remarkable bullpen appearance that helped the team clinch the World Series. Heading into 2026, the Dodgers are maintaining their plan to have Sasaki back in the rotation. But the 21-year-old has continued to face challenges in Spring Training, which prompted the Dodgers to send him to a ‘B’ game to gain some confidence.

👇

Sasaki’s Rocky Spring: Early Success, Then Inconsistency

Sasaki showed early promise in his most recent Cactus League outing against the Kansas City Royals. Through the first two innings, he retired six of eight batters and displayed improved command of his fastball and cutter. These early signs of progress seemed to suggest that Sasaki was finding his rhythm after a tumultuous 2025 season.

However, things quickly unraveled in the third inning, as Sasaki issued three consecutive walks to load the bases with one out. The young pitcher explained that he felt discomfort in his forearm, which he attributed to the sinker, and noted that the lower arm slot affected his control. After being removed from the game, Sasaki returned for the fourth inning but allowed a two-run homer, followed by another double in the fifth before his outing was officially over.

Despite these struggles, the Dodgers are taking a measured approach with Sasaki, seeing his performance as part of his development rather than a cause for panic. The organization has remained calm and focused on the long-term growth of their young star.

Dodgers’ Confidence in Sasaki Remains High

Despite the struggles in Spring Training, Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman expressed confidence in Sasaki’s future as a major-league starter. “There’s obviously a big gap between Triple-A and the big leagues,” Friedman said. “With certain really talented young players that we really believe in, we think that last mile of player development is generally better served at the major-league level.”

Friedman’s comments emphasize the Dodgers’ commitment to developing Sasaki in the majors, even as his Spring Training results have been inconsistent. The team believes that Sasaki has the potential to be a successful starting pitcher, though they acknowledge that the timeline for his development may take time.

Manager Dave Roberts has echoed this sentiment throughout the spring, showing patience and faith in Sasaki’s ability to adjust and improve. The Dodgers’ approach is to give Sasaki the opportunity to work through his issues at the highest level, with the goal of him becoming a key member of the rotation sooner rather than later.

Sasaki’s Perspective: Spring Training as a Learning Experience

Roki Sasaki himself has remained positive despite his struggles in Spring Training. The young pitcher expressed that he was glad to have the chance to work through his issues during Spring Training. “From the standpoint of results, I’m glad this was Spring Training,” Sasaki said in Japanese. “If I’m able to pitch the entire season, I don’t think anyone will remember Spring Training.”

This attitude reflects Sasaki’s maturity and focus on the bigger picture. He understands that Spring Training is a time to fine-tune his mechanics and iron out any issues before the regular season begins. Sasaki is determined to prove that he can overcome his early-season struggles and establish himself as a reliable starter for the Dodgers in 2026.

Looking Ahead: The Dodgers’ Rotation and Sasaki’s Role

As the Dodgers head into the regular season, the pressure will be on Sasaki to take the next step in his development. With Max Fried, Carlos Rodon, and Gerrit Cole anchoring the rotation, Sasaki will need to prove himself as a dependable No. 4 starter. The Dodgers are betting on his potential, and the next few months will be crucial in determining whether he can fulfill that promise.

Sasaki has the raw talent to be a major asset for the Dodgers, but the team knows that his development won’t happen overnight. They are prepared to give him the time and support he needs to refine his skills, particularly in his command and consistency.

Conclusion: A Long-Term Project for the Dodgers

While Roki Sasaki’s Spring Training struggles are certainly a concern, the Dodgers are confident in his long-term potential as a starting pitcher. The team’s commitment to his development at the major-league level speaks to their belief in his ability to grow and succeed. Sasaki’s journey will be one of patience and persistence, but if he can iron out his issues and develop into the pitcher the Dodgers hope he can be, the team will have a star on their hands for years to come.

Stay tuned to ESPN as the Dodgers continue to monitor Sasaki’s progress and prepare for the regular season.