In the electrifying realm of Major League Baseball (MLB), where international talents shine brightest, Roki Sasaki’s journey with the Los Angeles Dodgers continues to captivate fans worldwide. The 23-year-old Japanese pitching sensation, known for his blistering fastball, is edging closer to a comeback after a challenging rookie season marred by injury. As of September 12, 2025, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has provided fresh insights into Sasaki’s potential role, hinting at a possible transition to the bullpen while praising his recent rehab performance as “fantastic.”
For global audiences following MLB stars from Japan—like Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto—Sasaki’s story embodies the thrill of cross-cultural adaptation in professional sports. His path from Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) dominance to MLB hurdles offers lessons in resilience, making him a relatable figure for non-native English speakers navigating new environments. Let’s explore the latest developments, Sasaki’s background, and what this means for the Dodgers’ stacked roster.
Rehab Milestone: Velocity Surge Signals Readiness
Sasaki’s fifth rehab start on September 9, 2025, with Triple-A Oklahoma City marked a turning point. Throwing 4 2/3 innings, he surrendered three hits and three runs but struck out eight batters on a season-high 90 pitches. His fastball peaked at 101.6 mph (about 163.5 km/h)—his fastest since joining MLB—with an average of 98.6 mph (159 km/h). He dominated early, allowing just one hit and no runs through four innings, but stamina waned in the fifth, leading to three runs as velocity and control dipped.
Roberts, in a pre-game press conference on September 10 before the Dodgers-Rockies matchup, called the outing “really fantastic,” smiling as he noted the uptick in output. This addressed a major rehab concern: earlier outings saw his fastball dip to 94.3 mph, but this performance cleared that hurdle. By September 11, Roberts revealed Sasaki was flying into Los Angeles to meet with decision-makers, emphasizing honesty in assessing his current state and the team’s needs. “He’s going to be sitting down with all of us… whether it’s getting ready for something to happen here in a starting role or changing a role, it should all be on the table,” Roberts said.
Initially slated for a starter’s return from right shoulder impingement syndrome—which sidelined him since May—Sasaki’s path has shifted. The injury, involving tendon pinching in the shoulder, is common for high-velocity pitchers, but his pain-free throws over 100 mph six times in the outing signal progress. His rehab stats: 6.75 ERA over 18.2 innings, 16 strikeouts, and 12 walks, showing command remains a work in progress but improving.
Dodgers’ Rotation Dilemma: Bullpen as the Smart Play?
The Dodgers’ six-man rotation is a juggernaut, featuring ace Yamamoto, Ohtani (now hitting-focused post-surgery), Clayton Kershaw, Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, and Emmet Sheehan—all performing strongly amid a playoff chase. Inserting Sasaki as a starter could disrupt this harmony, prompting Roberts to keep options open. “Anything’s possible,” he said regarding a relief role, without committing to an MLB return.
Recent updates suggest a bullpen shift is likely. On September 11, reports confirmed Sasaki joining the team in LA, with discussions focusing on high-leverage relief to leverage his elite velocity without overtaxing his arm. This aligns with MLB trends for young international pitchers building endurance. The Dodgers’ bullpen has shown vulnerabilities, and Sasaki could provide a “game-changing weapon” in October, per analysts. With the 30-day rehab window closing, decisions loom—potentially activating him for late-season games or playoffs.
Sasaki’s Inspiring Backstory: From Tragedy to Stardom
Sasaki’s MLB odyssey began last offseason via the posting system from the Chiba Lotte Marines, culminating in a Dodgers signing after a bidding war. In his debut season, he posted a 1-1 record, 4.72 ERA, and 24 strikeouts in 34.1 innings across eight starts before shoulder pain struck post a May 9 game against the Arizona Diamondbacks (five runs in five innings, 61 pitches).
His NPB legacy is legendary: 29 wins, 505 strikeouts, and a 2.10 ERA over 394 innings, earning the “Reiwa Era Monster” moniker. Orphaned at nine by the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami, which took his father and grandparents, Sasaki turned grief into fuel. A high school prodigy compared to Daisuke Matsuzaka, he represents hope for disaster-affected communities in Japan.
The Dodgers’ 2025 Tokyo Series opener against the Cubs was a poignant homecoming, with Sasaki starting Game 2. His story resonates internationally, inspiring perseverance amid challenges like language barriers and cultural shifts.
Playoff Boost and Future Prospects
As the Dodgers eye a deep postseason run, Sasaki’s return could add firepower—perhaps as a bulk reliever or closer setup man. Roberts stresses dominance in Triple-A first, but optimism grows for an October role. Long-term, a full starter transition in 2026 seems probable, given his youth and talent.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When is Roki Sasaki expected to return to the Dodgers?
Sasaki is nearing a return after his September 9 rehab start, with meetings in LA on September 11 to discuss next steps. No exact date is set, but a late-September activation is possible, likely in the bullpen.
2. Why are the Dodgers considering moving Sasaki to the bullpen?
With a deep six-man rotation performing well, a relief role allows Sasaki to contribute without disrupting starters. It preserves his arm post-injury and utilizes his high velocity in short, high-impact bursts.
3. What was standout about Sasaki’s latest rehab performance?
He struck out eight in 4 2/3 innings, hit 101.6 mph on his fastball (his MLB-era high), and averaged 98.6 mph, showing recovered velocity despite late-inning fatigue.
4. How has Sasaki’s injury affected his 2025 season?
Sidelined since May with shoulder impingement, he’s made eight MLB starts (1-1, 4.72 ERA) and focused on rehab. The injury highlighted adaptation challenges from NPB to MLB.
