Roki Sasaki Emerges as Key Piece in Dodgers’ Quest for Three-Peat

The Los Angeles Dodgers secured their second consecutive World Series title with a thrilling seven-game victory over the Toronto Blue Jays, sparking discussions about the team’s potential to become the first squad in over 20 years to win three straight championships. Central to that ambition is the health and performance of their pitching staff.

While stars like Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Tyler Glasnow are expected to dominate headlines, rookie right-hander Roki Sasaki quietly made a case for himself as a vital contributor. Despite a season marked by injuries and adjustments, the 24-year-old displayed the ability to adapt and thrive in high-pressure situations.

Sasaki’s rookie campaign included eight starts and 10 total appearances, during which he threw 36.1 innings, recorded a 1-1 record, and posted a 4.46 ERA. His regular-season numbers were modest, but they only tell part of the story, as he overcame a right shoulder impingement that sidelined him for over three months.

The Japanese phenom’s late-season transition to a bullpen role, coupled with strategic adjustments guided by Dodgers pitching staff, allowed him to finish the year strong, demonstrating velocity, control, and mental toughness that could be the foundation for a successful sophomore season.

1. Adjustments and Development

Sasaki’s initial starts highlighted his potential but also revealed inconsistencies. As a starter, he posted a 4.72 ERA and a below-average whiff rate of 20.4%, prompting the Dodgers’ coaching staff to intervene during his rehabilitation. Under the guidance of pitching director Rob Hill and other staff, Sasaki tweaked his delivery, gaining better control of the strike zone and improving velocity. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts emphasized the importance of giving Sasaki a structured approach while allowing him the freedom to refine his skills. These adjustments were immediately evident in his late-season bullpen appearances. Sasaki threw two scoreless innings before the postseason, showcasing enhanced command and a more polished delivery. Roberts remarked that the pitcher now had “the look of a killer,” signaling the Dodgers’ confidence in his growth. His willingness to embrace these changes demonstrates a maturity and adaptability that bodes well for his return to the starting rotation in 2026, giving the team a versatile and dependable arm.

2. Postseason Impact and Performance

Sasaki’s postseason performance reinforced his value to the Dodgers. Over 10.2 innings, he allowed just six hits, five walks, and one earned run, striking out six batters and recording a save to cap Los Angeles’ championship run. His 0.84 ERA in high-pressure games underscored his ability to deliver when it mattered most. Velocity, a previous point of concern, was no longer an issue. Sasaki’s fastball topped out at 96 MPH before his injury, and he touched 100 MPH during the NLDS against the Phillies. His command also improved, making him a more reliable option for the Dodgers moving forward. Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman clarified that the team envisions Sasaki returning to the starting rotation rather than remaining in a bullpen role. The late-season relief stint was strategic, aimed at restoring his mechanics and confidence after injury, not a permanent change in role. This dual capability—starter and effective reliever—demonstrates Sasaki’s adaptability, an attribute that could be invaluable as the Dodgers aim for a three-peat. His postseason poise adds a layer of depth to a team already loaded with pitching talent.

3. Outlook for 2026

Sasaki’s rookie season, though interrupted by injury, provided invaluable experience and laid the groundwork for future success. The combination of mechanical adjustments, mental resilience, and exposure to both starting and relief roles positions him as a key contributor for the Dodgers in 2026. Starting pitchers rely heavily on routine and muscle memory, but Sasaki’s willingness to adjust mid-season reflects the versatility that can separate good pitchers from elite ones. His ability to take on new roles and thrive under pressure makes him an asset for any pitching staff. As the Dodgers look to defend their title and chase history with a potential three-peat, having a young, adaptable arm like Sasaki could prove decisive. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely during the offseason and spring training to gauge the sophomore growth of a pitcher who has already made a memorable debut. Roki Sasaki’s first MLB season was a journey of growth and adaptation, leaving little doubt that he could emerge as a pivotal piece of the Dodgers’ rotation in 2026.