Roki Sasaki Faces Pressure After Overcoming Struggles in Dodgers Camp

Roki Sasaki faces pressure as he works on overcoming struggles from Dodgers camp. The 24-year-old right-hander drew frustration during spring exhibitions.

Spring training and opening night

His exhibition ERA ballooned to 15.58. That figure alarmed observers given his limited major-league track record.

In his first start of 2026, he allowed one run in four innings against the Cleveland Guardians. He issued two walks and surrendered four hits in that outing.

He told reporters he had no confidence before the game, via interpreter Kensuke Okubo. Manager Dave Roberts called the result a step in the right direction.

Katie Woo posted Roberts’ line on March 31, 2026.

Pitching approach and team concerns

Sasaki attacked left-handers with fastballs and splitters. He leaned on a slider to neutralize right-handed hitters.

Still, the Dodgers need longer stretches of control before giving him postseason starts. Consistency in the strike zone remains a key question.

Rookie season and high-leverage success

He earned three saves last October while pitching in high-leverage situations. He posted a 0.84 ERA in that role.

Across his rookie campaign he posted a 4.46 ERA and 1.43 WHIP. He threw 36 1/3 innings over eight starts, striking out 28 batters.

A shoulder impingement sent him to the injured list for an extended period.

What to watch next

His second start was scheduled for April 5 against the Washington Nationals. Later in the month he was scheduled to face the Colorado Rockies in Colorado.

He also projects to start at home against the Miami Marlins. Those starts give him room to regain command and confidence.

He struggled with inconsistent pitch locations and with inducing chases outside the strike zone. The Dodgers will monitor his workload and performance closely.

Filmogaz.com will continue reporting on his progress.