What's Happening?
Roki Sasaki, a rookie right-hander for the Los Angeles Dodgers, threw three simulated innings against hitters at Dodger Stadium on Friday. Sasaki, who has been recovering from a shoulder injury, managed to throw 46 pitches during the session, reaching speeds of up to 97 mph with his fastball. This velocity is close to what he was achieving before he was placed on the injured list in mid-May. The session was reported by Bill Plunkett of The Orange County Register. According to Sonja Chen of MLB.com, Sasaki may soon begin a minor-league rehab assignment if he experiences no issues following this session. Alternatively, he might be asked to throw another live bullpen session. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has expressed a desire to see Sasaki gain more confidence in his delivery.
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Why It's Important?
Sasaki's return to form is crucial for the Dodgers as they look to bolster their pitching lineup. His ability to reach pre-injury velocity suggests he is nearing full recovery, which could significantly impact the team's performance in upcoming games. A successful rehab assignment would allow Sasaki to rejoin the Dodgers' rotation, providing them with a promising young arm. This development is particularly important as the team navigates the latter part of the season, where pitching depth can be a decisive factor in playoff contention. Sasaki's progress is also a positive sign for the Dodgers' investment in international talent, showcasing the potential benefits of their scouting and development strategies.
What's Next?
If Sasaki remains symptom-free after his simulated innings, he is likely to start a minor-league rehab assignment soon. This step is essential for assessing his readiness to return to major league play. The Dodgers will monitor his performance closely, ensuring he regains full confidence in his delivery before making a comeback. Depending on his progress, Sasaki could be back in the Dodgers' rotation in the near future, contributing to their playoff push. The team's management will continue to evaluate his condition and make decisions based on his recovery trajectory.
