Roki Sasaki Impresses in First Live Batting Practice with Dodgers

The 23-year-old Japanese phenom showcased his signature splitter and mental poise in front of teammates, coaches, and fans in Glendale, Arizona.

Roki Sasaki faced Major League hitters for the first time in a live batting practice session at Dodgers spring training, drawing a large crowd of fans, teammates, and team officials.
The right-hander threw two simulated innings, focusing on his fastball and splitter while introducing his developing slider, with mixed results against hitters like Tommy Edman and Eddie Rosario.
Sasaki's signature splitter earned praise for its movement, including a swinging strikeout of Rosario, while his fastball was estimated in the mid-90s as he works to regain peak velocity following past shoulder inflammation.
Dodgers players and staff noted Sasaki's composure under the intense attention, highlighting his mental strength as a key asset for his transition to Major League Baseball.
Sasaki is expected to start the second game of the Dodgers' Tokyo Series against the Cubs in March, as the team plans to manage his workload on a schedule similar to his time in Japan.