Dodgers rookie Roki Sasaki adjusts pitching arsenal amid playoff hopes amid underwhelming season performance
The Los Angeles Dodgers, known for their exceptional player development, are considering a potential role for right-hander Roki Sasaki in the bullpen for the remainder of the season. Sasaki, one of the most highly anticipated free-agent signings last winter, has made a significant change to his arsenal since his return, substituting his sweeping slider with a cutter.
Sasaki, who has been sidelined since early May with a shoulder impingement, has only thrown three sinkers according to pitch classification algorithms, and none of them have landed in the zone. However, the cutter, yet to be used in the majors, has shown promising results in minor league rehab appearances.
In small samples, Sasaki's cutter has demonstrated a whiff percentage of 50%, compared to 33.3% for his slider. Moreover, the cutter boasts a higher zone% and chase% compared to his slider. This shift in pitching strategy could provide a different look and serve as a complimentary pitch to his fastball, which, according to reports, features dead-zone properties.
Manager Dave Roberts believes Sasaki is in a good place to contribute to the team. Prior to his injury, Sasaki posted a 4.72 ERA and a 1.09 strikeout-to-walk ratio, averaging under five innings per game. Sasaki himself understands the good performance of the starting pitchers and wants to be a part of it.
The Dodgers have a chance to secure a spot in the postseason as early as Friday night. Sasaki's potential addition to the Dodgers' playoff roster is yet to be seen with just more than a week remaining in the regular season. Sasaki is working hard to make a bigger impact on the Dodgers, whether it be this fall or next spring.
Roki Sasaki was trained and transformed under the coaching staff of the Los Angeles Dodgers before signing with them, with a focus on refining his pitching mechanics and improving consistency and efficiency. This background suggests that further arsenal refinements may be on Sasaki's winter to-do list.
Interestingly, Pittsburgh Pirates ace Paul Skenes also faced criticism for his four-seamer's shape but overcame concerns in part by adding a sinker-splitter hybrid to his mix. This highlights the importance of adaptability and continuous improvement in the world of baseball.
As the Dodgers gear up for potential postseason play, the addition of Roki Sasaki, with his new cutter, could prove to be a game-changer. Stay tuned for updates on Sasaki's progress and potential role in the Dodgers' playoff run.
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