The Los Angeles Dodgers expected Roki Sasaki to become an important part of their pitching staff after the highly regarded Japanese star made the move to Major League Baseball. Widely viewed as one of the sport’s brightest young arms, Sasaki arrived with tremendous expectations following an outstanding career in Japan and an impressive start to his time with the Dodgers.
Like many international players, however, Sasaki has faced significant challenges during his transition to the major leagues. Adapting to a different style of play, a demanding schedule, and a new environment can test even the most accomplished players, and the 24-year-old is currently experiencing those growing pains on the mound.
His latest outing against the San Diego Padres highlighted many of the issues that have troubled him throughout the season. Despite the Dodgers rallying for a 12-7 victory, Sasaki struggled to contain San Diego’s lineup, forcing the coaching staff to consider a more detailed evaluation of his recent performances.
Rather than making immediate changes to the rotation, manager Dave Roberts indicated that the organization plans to work closely with the young right-hander. The Dodgers believe Sasaki still possesses the talent to become a frontline starter, but they recognize that identifying the source of his struggles has become an immediate priority.
1. Dodgers Begin Detailed Evaluation
Following Sasaki’s difficult performance against the Padres, Roberts confirmed that the right-hander will remain in the starting rotation for his next scheduled appearance. At the same time, the manager acknowledged that the coaching staff intends to conduct what he described as a “deep dive” into the pitcher’s recent struggles.
The review will examine several possible explanations for Sasaki’s inconsistent results. One area receiving particular attention is the possibility that opposing hitters may be recognizing his pitches before they leave his hand, a problem commonly referred to as tipping pitches.
If hitters can identify different pitches based on subtle changes in mechanics or delivery, even elite pitchers can quickly become vulnerable. Roberts suggested that possibility after watching the Padres consistently square up Sasaki’s offerings throughout the game.
The Dodgers hope that a careful analysis of video, mechanics, and pitch execution will help uncover correctable issues before they become larger problems as the season progresses.
2. Rough Outing Raises New Concerns
Against San Diego, Sasaki endured one of his most difficult starts of the season. He surrendered six earned runs while lasting only three innings before being removed from the game.
The Padres did much of their damage through the long ball, with Manny Machado, Jackson Merrill, and Jake Cronenworth each connecting for home runs. Sasaki also issued two walks, further contributing to an outing that saw his earned run average climb to 5.40.
The performance was particularly concerning because San Diego has not been among the league’s most productive offensive teams this season. The ease with which the Padres generated hard contact raised additional questions about Sasaki’s command, pitch sequencing, and overall effectiveness.
Despite those struggles, the Dodgers’ offense responded with a powerful comeback, allowing the team to overcome the early deficit and secure a 12-7 victory. The win softened the immediate impact of Sasaki’s outing but did little to lessen concern over his individual performance.
3. Dodgers Remain Patient Despite Rotation Questions
Even with Sasaki’s uneven season, the Dodgers continue to believe in his long-term potential. The organization has invested heavily in his development and understands that young pitchers often require time to adjust after moving from Japan to Major League Baseball.
Still, Los Angeles cannot afford extended instability within its rotation. Injuries affecting pitchers such as Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow have already tested the club’s starting depth, making it increasingly important for healthy starters to provide reliable innings.
Sasaki has previously demonstrated the talent that made him one of baseball’s most coveted young pitchers. During the Dodgers’ 2025 championship run, he showed flashes of dominance that convinced many observers he could eventually become one of the rotation’s cornerstone arms.
For now, patience remains the organization’s approach. Roberts and the coaching staff hope their detailed review will identify the adjustments necessary for Sasaki to regain confidence and consistency as the Dodgers continue pursuing another successful season.