Dave Roberts Sends Honest Message on Roki Sasaki’s Role

The wait continues for Los Angeles Dodgers rookie Roki Sasaki. The heralded pitcher from Japan has been on the injured list since May 13 with a right shoulder impingement, and only recently has he made real progress.

While Sasaki still has several hurdles to clear as he works his way back, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has already assured him his role will largely remain the same once he returns.

Following a bullpen session Tuesday at Dodger Stadium, Roberts reiterated that the Dodgers still view Sasaki as a starter.

“From what I understand right now,” Roberts said via MLB.com’s Sarah Wexler, “we’re going to try to get him up to five or six innings and go from there.”

Roki Sasaki Took Big Step With Simulated Game

The 23-year-old Sasaki took another significant step in his rehab Friday, pitching three simulated innings. Sasaki threw 45 pitches and sat 96-97 mph with his fastball, per Fabian Ardaya of the Athletic.

The next steps in Sasaki’s recovery are uncertain, though Roberts left open the possibility of Sasaki going on a rehab assignment.

Roberts said via the Los Angeles Times’ Jack Harris that the team is still “waiting for him to get to a point where he feels really comfortable and confident in his delivery and where he’s at, so he can attack the hitters.”

Sasaki’s last appearance came way back on May 9, when he allowed five hits and five runs over four innings in a 14-11 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks. He threw 61 pitches.

Sasaki resumed throwing approximately two weeks after landing on the IL but didn’t advance beyond soft tossing before being shut down again. At the time, pitching coach Mark Prior suggested Sasaki’s issues were more than just physical.

“There’s always a mental component when you’re hurt,” Prior said, “and you’re always wondering, ‘Am I going to feel something at that moment?’ … There is a little bit of a mental barrier that they all need to get through.”

Dodgers Have Crowded Rotation

Sasaki struggled prior to getting hurt, posting a 4.72 ERA in his first eight starts. In 34.1 innings, Sasaki struck out 24 batters but walked 22.

Sasaki could theoretically slide back into the rotation, but the Dodgers will have plenty to sort out. With Blake Snell back, they currently have six starting pitchers.

Sasaki acknowledged he will need to fight to earn his role, whatever that may be.

“My every intention is to get back on a Major League mound and pitch again,” Sasaki said via MLB.com. “With that being said, I do need to fight for the opportunity. I don’t think that I’ll just be given the opportunity right away.”

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