Roki Sasaki Struggles in Spring Training as Dodgers Monitor Command Issues

The Los Angeles Dodgers are working through early spring evaluations with one of their most closely watched pitchers, Roki Sasaki, whose performances have yet to meet expectations. Entering camp as a highly anticipated addition, Sasaki has instead drawn attention for repeated struggles in maintaining control during game situations.

The right-hander, who joined the Dodgers following a competitive international free agent pursuit, opted out of the World Baseball Classic to focus on preparing for the demands of a full starting workload. The decision was intended to help him transition after previously pitching in a relief role late in the prior season.

However, his spring outings have been marked by inconsistent command and difficulty navigating through innings. On multiple occasions, manager Dave Roberts has been forced to remove him early after pitch counts escalated and situations became difficult to manage.

With Opening Day approaching, Sasaki’s performance has become a focal point for the Dodgers’ coaching staff as they evaluate whether he is ready to handle a defined role in the starting rotation.

1. Early Spring Performances Raise Concerns

Sasaki’s appearances this spring have been uneven, with command issues surfacing as a recurring theme. In several outings, he has struggled to consistently locate pitches within the strike zone, leading to high pitch counts and limited innings. During a recent Freeway Series game against the Angels, Roberts had indicated he wanted to observe Sasaki in a more competitive, regular-season-like environment. The goal was to assess his ability to attack hitters and execute pitches under pressure. Instead, the outing quickly became difficult. Sasaki hit a batter, issued multiple walks, and allowed a run without recording an out in the early portion of the inning. Although defensive miscues contributed to the situation, the primary concern remained his inability to establish command. The inning ultimately mirrored previous appearances, where inefficiency and control problems forced early exits. Despite flashes of potential, the lack of consistency has prevented Sasaki from completing innings on a regular basis.

2. Command and Pitch Efficiency Under Scrutiny

One of the key issues identified in Sasaki’s spring performances has been pitch efficiency. In one outing, he recorded significantly fewer strikes than total pitches thrown, highlighting the challenge he has faced in consistently locating the ball. With runners on base, these struggles have been magnified. Walks and missed locations have led to extended innings and increased stress on both his pitch count and the bullpen’s readiness. Roberts and the Dodgers’ coaching staff have emphasized the importance of “compete mode,” encouraging Sasaki to attack hitters rather than work cautiously around the strike zone. However, translating that approach into consistent execution has proven difficult so far. While spring training is often used for experimentation and adjustment, the frequency of Sasaki’s command issues has prompted closer scrutiny. For a pitcher expected to handle a starting role, the ability to maintain control and limit free passes is considered essential.

3. Rotation Role and Regular Season Outlook

Despite the early challenges, Sasaki has already been tabbed for a role in the Dodgers’ rotation, with Roberts indicating he is slated to start Game 4 of the regular season. That assignment reflects the organization’s initial confidence in his potential. However, his spring performance has introduced a degree of uncertainty. If command issues persist into the regular season, the Dodgers may need to consider adjustments, including shortening his outings or exploring alternative rotation options. One potential fallback option mentioned internally is Justin Wrobleski, who could step in if adjustments are required. The presence of depth gives the Dodgers flexibility as they monitor Sasaki’s progress. Ultimately, Sasaki’s ability to adapt will determine his role moving forward. While spring training results are not always predictive, consistent struggles with command can carry over into meaningful games. For a team with championship aspirations, stabilizing the rotation remains a priority as the season begins.