LOS ANGELES (AP) — Roki Sasaki’s start with the Los Angeles Dodgers hasn’t quite gone as planned. Known for his stellar performance in Japan, the young pitcher is facing challenges in the big leagues that have surprised many.
In his debut at Dodger Stadium, Sasaki struggled with his control, walking four batters and managing to secure just five outs in the second inning. This outing came after a rocky start in Chicago, where he walked five in three innings. Disappointing results have fans and analysts raising eyebrows, especially since Sasaki was celebrated as one of Japan’s top pitching talents.
Despite his earlier success with the Chiba Lotte Marines, Sasaki’s splitter—the pitch that many considered his secret weapon—hasn’t been consistent. It’s unusual for a pitcher of his caliber. “I just didn’t feel like I had the stuff today,” he said through interpreter Will Ireton. His struggles seem particularly notable given his previous track record of hitting the strike zone.
Will Smith, the Dodgers’ catcher, remains optimistic. “He’s talented and has pitched in big games before,” he mentioned. Fans also felt the excitement, roaring for him as he took the mound in front of 51,788 spectators. Smith noted that the Dodger Stadium atmosphere can be intense, which might play a role in a young pitcher’s nerves. He expressed confidence that Sasaki will improve with experience.
Manager Dave Roberts echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that many pitchers go through tough outings, especially early in their careers. He reminded everyone that this is part of the learning process for Sasaki. “All he’s known is success, and so I think that he’s certainly upset, disappointed,” Roberts said.
Despite the pressure, Sasaki showed flashes of brilliance, including a fastball that reached 97 mph. He also struck out two batters, indicating that he still has potential to make a significant impact. However, it’s clear that he has work ahead of him.
As Sasaki prepares for his next start in Philadelphia, he has the chance to refine his skills. The Dodgers have built in enough rest days during April to allow him to focus on improving his performance during bullpen sessions.
Looking ahead, the Dodgers are also awaiting the return of Shohei Ohtani, who has been recovering from injury. Once he returns, the Dodgers may shift to a six-man rotation, allowing for even more support for Sasaki.
In the grand scheme, this is just the start for Sasaki. The struggles he faces now could ultimately shape his success in the long run. With a track record of overcoming challenges, fans are hopeful that he will soon find his rhythm and show everyone why he was so highly regarded back home.
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Source linkDave Roberts, Will Smith, Los Angeles Dodgers, Shohei Ohtani, Chicago Cubs, Detroit Tigers, MLB, MI State Wire, CA State Wire, Zach McKinstry, Riley Greene, Sports, Los Angeles, MLB baseball, Lotte Marines, Kerry Carpenter, Will Ireton, Manuel Margot
