What's Happening?
Roki Sasaki, a rookie right-hander for the Los Angeles Dodgers, is making progress in his recovery from a shoulder impingement that sidelined him earlier in the season. Sasaki, who was a significant acquisition for the Dodgers, has been working on a throwing program and has faced hitters in live batting practice sessions. The Dodgers are hopeful that Sasaki can contribute to their World Series push, as they evaluate their pitching staff to identify the best arms for the postseason. Sasaki's early-season performance was underwhelming, with a 4.72 ERA over eight starts, but recent improvements in his delivery and pitch mix have been encouraging.
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Why It's Important?
Sasaki's potential return is significant for the Dodgers as they aim for another deep postseason run. His presence would provide additional pitching depth and insurance, which is crucial given the unpredictable nature of injuries and performance fluctuations. Sasaki's development could also impact the team's long-term plans, as he was initially seen as a future star with ace-caliber potential. His ability to adapt and improve his mechanics and pitch selection during recovery demonstrates resilience and could enhance the Dodgers' pitching options.
What's Next?
Sasaki is scheduled for a three-inning simulated game, after which he may begin a minor-league rehab assignment. If his progress continues, he could rejoin the Dodgers' active roster by the end of August. The team is considering various roles for Sasaki, including a potential shift to the bullpen as a hard-throwing reliever. Manager Dave Roberts has emphasized the importance of Sasaki believing in his capabilities, which could influence his performance and confidence moving forward.
