Roki Sasaki: The Resurrection of a Star Pitcher on the Mound
In the world of baseball, the story of Roki Sasaki is one of redemption and transformation. The young pitcher, hailing from Japan, arrived at the Dodgers with high expectations, but injuries and technical problems threatened to cut short his promising career. However, thanks to dedication, confidence, and a change of focus, Sasaki has re-emerged as a key piece in the Dodgers’ bullpen, demonstrating that hope and hard work can overcome any adversity. In 2021, in his first season in the Japanese Professional Baseball League, Sasaki dazzled with his speed and his effective split-finger fastball. His talent caught the attention of Rob Hill, pitching director of the Dodgers, who saw immense potential in Sasaki. Hill’s admiration turned into an opportunity when Sasaki, after a season of ups and downs in the minors, needed a solution to regain his best form. The key to Sasaki’s transformation was a change in his pitching mechanics. Hill and the Dodgers’ coaching staff identified a problem in the way Sasaki moved his pelvis, which affected the speed and efficiency of his pitches. After a thorough analysis, small adjustments were implemented that made a big difference. The desire to compete and win drove Sasaki to accept a new role in the bullpen. With two successful appearances at the end of the regular season, he earned a spot in the playoffs. His speed exceeded 100 miles per hour and his split-finger fastball proved to be unstoppable, solidifying him as a dominant closer. Sasaki’s success is a testament to the Dodgers’ ability to analyze and improve their players, utilizing all available resources. The organization focuses on creating an environment of trust and communication, where players feel supported and motivated to reach their maximum potential.Sasaki’s arrival in MLB was unconventional. Unlike other Japanese players who accumulate achievements before going to the United States, Sasaki sought immediate challenges. His goal was to improve his fastball, and the Dodgers offered him the solution he needed. Hill implemented a personalized approach, focused on Sasaki’s individual needs. The analysis of Sasaki’s mechanics revealed that a movement in his back leg was affecting the efficiency of his pitching. By correcting this detail, the speed and control he had lost were recovered. After two months of work, Sasaki returned to the mound with a pitching speed of up to 100.6 mph. The Dodgers, impressed by his progress, decided to give him the opportunity to shine in the bullpen. Sasaki responded to the trust placed in him, becoming a fundamental pillar of the team. His ability to pitch in high-pressure situations and his dedication to the game have made him an example for his teammates. Sasaki’s story is a lesson about perseverance and the importance of self-confidence and trust in the team. Despite the difficulties, Sasaki never gave up and, with the right support, managed to regain his best form and become a key player for the Dodgers. Sasaki’s resurrection is an example of how teamwork and adaptation can lead to success. The star pitcher, who will be a starter again next year, focuses on contributing to the team in the playoffs. Sasaki’s story is a reminder that, with confidence and competence, what is lost can be found. The Dodgers’ pitching director, Rob Hill, emphasizes the importance of not underestimating anyone. Sasaki’s story is an example that one should never give up on a player, regardless of the circumstances. There is always an opportunity for improvement and growth.When he returned, I told him he now had a different look. He has the look of a killer.
Dave Roberts, Manager of the Dodgers
