Overview

• Roki Sasaki, MLB Pipeline's No. 1 overall prospect for 2025, has struggled in his debut season with a 4.72 ERA over eight starts.
• Sasaki's four-seam fastball velocity has dropped to an average of 96 mph, a significant decline from the triple-digit speeds he showcased in Japan.
• The Dodgers remain committed to Sasaki's development at the Major League level, with manager Dave Roberts ruling out a demotion to the minors.
• Coaches are emphasizing command improvement for Sasaki's fastball, which has a low 10.1% whiff rate and has become increasingly hittable.
• Concerns have been raised about Sasaki's mental adjustment to MLB pressure, with insiders noting his struggles to maintain confidence on the mound.