Overview
- General manager Brandon Gomes said Sasaki is a starter “for sure,” noting strong bullpen velocity and work on a cutter and two‑seam fastball.
- Roberts stated the club will give Sasaki a chance to be the fifth or sixth starter but cautioned he needs a third pitch that moves left to turn lineups over.
- President of baseball operations Andrew Friedman voiced confidence in a long career for Sasaki and said success can come by adding a third pitch or sharpening pitch execution.
- Multiple outlets report Sasaki is expected to skip the World Baseball Classic to focus on spring buildup in Glendale, with MLB Network’s Jon Morosi tying the decision to starter preparation.
- Sasaki’s rookie year featured a mid‑May shoulder impingement and uneven regular‑season results before a strong postseason in relief with three saves and a 0.84 ERA; coverage also noted minor tension over who deserved credit for his velocity rebound.