Sasaki‘s Velocity Reignites Postseason Hope for Dodgers
Oklahoma City, OK – Roki Sasaki showcased impressive form Tuesday, reaching 100 mph on six pitches during a four-inning rehab start for triple-A Oklahoma City, perhaps thrusting himself back into consideration for a role on the Los Angeles Dodgers’ postseason pitching staff.
The 23-year-old Sasaki, who has been recovering from a shoulder impingement that landed him on the injured list in mid-May, allowed just one hit through the first four innings before tiring in the fifth, giving up three runs on two hits, two walks, and a hit batter. He threw a total of 90 pitches, 52 for strikes, while striking out eight and walking four.
“We’ve all got to huddle up and figure out what’s the next plan,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said after the game. ”I personally don’t know Roki’s plan after tonight.”
Sasaki’s initial four rehab appearances were challenging, yielding 17 hits and 11 earned runs across 14 innings. Prior to the injury, he posted a 1-1 record with a 4.72 ERA in eight starts for the Dodgers. While a rotation spot appears unlikely, Roberts indicated Sasaki could be considered for bullpen duty.
“Anything’s possible,” Roberts stated. “I know he wants to contribute. So we’ve just got to see where he fits in. And we’ll have that conversation as an association.”
the potential addition of Sasaki comes as the Dodgers navigate increasingly difficult roster decisions with two weeks remaining in the regular season. Left-hander Alex Vesia returned from the injured list Tuesday after recovering from a right oblique strain, having previously been 3-2 with a 2.75 ERA in 59 games. To make room for Vesia, right-hander Ben Casparius was optioned to Oklahoma City, where he had a 7-5 record and a 4.64 ERA in 46 games.
“The conversation with Ben yesterday wasn’t fun for anyone,” Roberts acknowledged. “It starts to get tougher.”
Roberts anticipates another challenging roster move Wednesday with the activation of utility player Tommy Edman from the injured list.Outfielder Justin Dean, who has primarily served as a defensive replacement and has only two at-bats in 18 games, is considered the most likely candidate to be sent down.