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2w ago

Roki Sasaki Struggles in Triple-A Rehab Debut, Dodgers Plan 75-Pitch Build-Up

His first live outing saw a 93.6 mph average fastball and three runs in one-plus innings, raising doubts about a late-August recall and postseason eligibility.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 28: Roki Sasaki #11 of the Los Angeles Dodgers looks on in the dugout prior to a game against the Miami Marlins at Dodger Stadium on April 28, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Brandon Sloter/Getty Images)
Aug 8, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki (11) throws before the game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
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Aug 8, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki (11) throws before the game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Sasaki needed 41 pitches to record six outs in his first Triple-A rehab start for Oklahoma City, allowing three runs on six hits with one walk and no strikeouts.
  • His fastball velocity dipped to an average of 93.6 mph and topped out at 95.7 mph, below the 96–97 mph readings from his recent simulated session at Dodger Stadium.
  • The Dodgers’ next step is a staged workload plan to extend him to five innings or 75 pitches, which would position him for a potential late-August or early-September big-league activation.
  • Sasaki entered the season with high expectations but struggled to a 4.72 ERA in eight MLB starts before landing on the 60-day injured list with a right shoulder impingement.
  • Manager Dave Roberts has said only his 12–13 best pitchers will make the postseason roster, meaning Sasaki must prove both effectiveness and durability during his rehab to earn a spot.