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Dodgers Face Roster Decision: Roki Sasaki’s MLB Future Hangs in Balance

MLB access_alarms2025-05-12 19:49:07 visibility6 text_decrease title text_increase

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Rookie Phenom's Control Issues Prompt Potential Demotion

The Los Angeles Dodgers are weighing a crucial decision regarding Japanese pitching sensation Roki Sasaki, whose early MLB success has been marred by inconsistent performance. Multiple team sources confirm the 23-year-old right-hander could be optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City as soon as this weekend.

Dodgers Face Dilemma: Promising Rookie Roki Sasaki on Brink of Minors Demotion Amid Rotation Overhaul

From NPB Dominance to MLB Growing Pains

Since signing his $65 million contract in January 2025, Sasaki has struggled to replicate his Nippon Professional Baseball success where he dominated with a 102 mph fastball and career 1.90 ERA. Through seven MLB starts, his 3.86 ERA and 1.451 WHIP reveal deeper issues:

32 walks in 35.2 innings pitched
48% first-pitch strike rate (MLB average: 61%)
19.3% walk rate with runners in scoring position

Veteran Returns Create Pitching Logjam

The Dodgers' rotation crunch intensifies with three key developments:

"We're facing a good problem - too many quality arms. Roki needs consistent innings to develop, whether that's here or in Oklahoma City."
- Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager

Clayton Kershaw's expected return from shoulder rehab
Shohei Ohtani's midseason pitching comeback timeline
Strong performances from Snell/Yamamoto duo

Development Crossroads: Options for Sasaki

Team officials emphasize this potential demotion reflects developmental strategy rather than punishment. The Dodgers have successfully used this approach with:

Pitcher	AAA Time	Post-Demotion ERA
Bobby Miller (2024)	6 weeks	3.12
Emmet Sheehan (2023)	8 weeks	2.89

Silver Linings in Statistical Profile

Despite control issues, Sasaki shows elite potential:

38% whiff rate on splitter (MLB 2nd among SP)
98.2 mph average fastball velocity
27.3% strikeout rate with bases empty

What's Next for the Japanese Prospect?

Pitching coach Mark Prior outlined the immediate focus areas:

"We need mechanical consistency in his delivery and better pitch sequencing. The raw tools are there - now it's about refining execution under pressure."

The Dodgers face a Friday deadline to make roster moves before Kershaw's scheduled return. Sasaki's next bullpen session could determine whether he gets another MLB start or begins working through issues in the minors.