Roki Sasaki returns to action with the Dodgers
Los Angeles Dodgers right-handed pitcher Roki Sasaki returned to the mound this Thursday in a rehabilitation start with the Triple-A Oklahoma City team, after being out since May 9 due to an impingement in his right shoulder.
Sasaki made his return needing 41 pitches to complete two innings, but was unable to retire the first two batters of the third inning. The Japanese pitcher allowed six hits, gave up one walk, and conceded three runs, without recording any strikeouts in his outing against the Albuquerque Isotopes.
Regarding his repertoire, Sasaki’s slider averaged 93.6 mph, reaching a maximum of 95.7 mph. A week earlier, in a three-inning simulated game, his velocity had been between 96-97 mph.
The Dodgers’ plan was for the rookie to complete three innings in this outing. Once he manages to reach five innings or 75 pitches, the club will evaluate his incorporation into the Major League roster, possibly at the end of August or the beginning of September.
Sasaki, who debuted this year with high expectations, had a rocky start in MLB, recording an ERA of 4.72 in eight starts before entering the injured list on May 13. During his absence, he worked on mechanical adjustments and adding a two-seam pitch to his repertoire, although he didn’t use it in this presentation.
Manager Dave Roberts has pointed out that the priority in this process is for Sasaki to regain confidence and consistency.
Although the Los Angeles rotation currently has Tyler Glasnow and Blake Snell back, Sasaki’s return could represent an additional key piece for the final stretch of the season, especially in the divisional race.
Also, Michael Kopech, also in rehabilitation after knee surgery, pitched on Thursday, allowing three runs in just 0.2 innings, with two hits, two walks and two wild pitches.
