Roki Sasaki Says He’s Ready To Be a Frontline Starter After Strong Second Half

Regained fastball velocity and a harder forkball drove a marked late‑season improvement that boosts his case for a regular 2027 rotation role.

Overview

Sasaki said Tuesday that he now sees himself as a frontline starter who wants to put up strong regular‑season numbers and compete for individual awards.
After a 2025 season limited by a shoulder impingement, he increased his workload to roughly 122 1/3 innings in 2026 and made 23 starts, the most of his pro career.
His second half was markedly better, producing a 2.83 ERA in 41 1/3 innings with improved strikeout and walk rates that show clearer command and effectiveness.
Coaches and Sasaki credit a return of velocity—his four‑seamer averaged about 97.9 mph—and a harder forkball for the surge, though he says his breaking pitches still need work.
Despite the gains, a late‑August blister and the Dodgers’ deep rotation mean his exact 2027 role will depend on roster moves, health and how the club manages Shohei Ohtani’s workload.