Spring training is just two weeks away for the Los Angeles Dodgers. The 40-man roster is loaded, and space is at a premium. The starting rotation seems destined to remain a six-man operation, with Roki Sasaki joining it. At least it appeared that way, until manager Dave Roberts made some intriguing comments to Dylan Hernandez of the California Post. The three-time World Series-winning manager said in an interview that Sasaki will have to develop a third pitch in order to have long-term success as a starter.
Roberts: Roki Sasaki Needs to Learn Third Pitch to Be Effective Starter for Dodgers
Roki Sasaki will have to develop a third pitch to be an effective starting pitcher, manager Dave Roberts said.
On the 24-year-old starter-turned-closer-turned-back-starter, who will once again show up to camp as one of the team’s great mysteries: https://t.co/1uYdoCYYca
— Dylan Hernández (@dylanohernandez) January 28, 2026
Is This a Surprise?
This is news, but it isn’t surprising when considering the 24-year-old had a somewhat rocky start to his major-league career.
A Brief History
The signing of Sasaki was one of the most-followed offseason events last winter. He was immediately inserted into the starting rotation. Not surprisingly, there were glimpses of greatness, and his repertoire was filthy. However, the rookie struggled to keep his pitches in the strike zone, elevating his pitch count, and allowing hitters look in a certain zone. Then the injury bug hit, and Sasaki went on the injured list due to shoulder pain. There was doubt that he would return last year. Fortunately, for the Dodgers, he became the postseason closer, and an effective one. Los Angeles wouldn’t have made it past the Division Series without him.
What Does the Future Look Like?
With this announcement from Roberts, it is clear the Dodgers want more. But will Sasaki have enough time in spring training to work on a third pitch? The Japanese standout will work on his endurance in the preseason, just like the other rotation pieces. However, knowing his injury history, they will not rush him. Because of the depth of the roster, Los Angeles has options. They could allow him to build up early-season innings, similar to what Shohei Ohtani did last season. Or, they could send him to Triple-A Oklahoma City once the season starts.
Whatever happens, we won’t have long to wait.
Main Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images