Roki Sasaki, the highly-touted Japanese pitcher who joined the Los Angeles Dodgers, is under scrutiny after a rocky start to his Major League Baseball (MLB) career. At just 23 years old, Sasaki arrived in the MLB with significant expectations, hailed as a generational talent and one of the most promising pitchers in recent memory. However, his initial outings have raised questions about his ability to adapt to the demands of the big leagues.
The Dodgers kicked off the 2025 season with an impressive five-game winning streak, showcasing their status as reigning champions. Yet, Sasaki’s early performances have been less than stellar, prompting concern among fans and analysts. In his second start last Saturday, Sasaki struggled, lasting only 1.2 innings and allowing two runs on three hits while issuing four walks over 61 pitches.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts remains optimistic about Sasaki’s potential despite these challenges. “The adjustment period is natural, and there is no reason to panic,” Roberts stated. He emphasized that Sasaki, known for his control and strike zone presence, is grappling with the pressures of a new environment and the expectations that come with it. “He wants to impress and play well, but right now he’s just not in sync,” Roberts added.
Transitioning to the MLB can be particularly daunting for a player of Sasaki’s caliber, especially one who arrives with the weight of star status. The differences in hitting styles, the intensity of games, and the high physical demands of the league can all contribute to a steep learning curve. Additionally, signing with the defending World Series champions has placed Sasaki in the spotlight from day one, amplifying the pressure on him to perform.
Roberts has made it clear that Sasaki’s development will be a gradual process, underscoring the importance of patience and time for the young pitcher. “From the beginning, we’ve always said that we believe this is a process,” he explained. As Sasaki prepares for his next challenge in Philadelphia, the coaching staff is hopeful that he will continue to improve and eventually find his rhythm within the team’s rotation.
While Sasaki’s first two outings have not lived up to expectations, the Dodgers remain confident in his ability to adapt and thrive in the MLB. Fans are encouraged to weigh in on the situation, reflecting on whether they believe Sasaki can overcome this difficult start and emerge as one of the league’s premier pitchers. As anticipation builds for his upcoming performance, the baseball community watches closely, eager to see if the young talent can rise to the occasion.
