Los Angeles Dodgers have had a season full of injuries, especially in their pitching staff. However, little by little, the good news is beginning to arrive. The return of Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow is now joined by the recovery of promising Japanese rookie Roki Sasaki, who is emerging as a key piece in the rotation for the remainder of the campaign.
Sasaki, who has not played in an official game since May 13 due to a shoulder injury, has begun pitching against real batters as part of his rehabilitation process. His return is getting closer and he himself has confirmed that he feels in good shape.
“I’m pain-free”: Roki Sasaki excites Dodgers fans
In a recent interview with SportsNet LA, Sasaki expressed calmness and optimism about his recent recovery.
“I’m just really relieved to be pain-free,” shared the Japanese pitcher
The young player, who arrived in MLB as one of the most eagerly awaited gems of Japanese baseball, is committed to earning his place and takes nothing for granted.
This mentality of constant work and humility has been well received by the Dodgers fans and coaching staff, who are looking forward to seeing him back in action.
Adjusting to MLB baseball: a challenge for Roki Sasaki
Although Sasaki arrived in the United States with a distinguished career in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), his start in Major League Baseball has not been easy. In his first eight starts, he posted an ERA of 4.72, a number below expectations for such a coveted arm.
Roki Sasaki himself has acknowledged that the style of play in the United States is very different and that he has had to make significant adjustments.
When will Roki Sasaki return to the active roster?
Manager Dave Roberts confirmed that the next step in Sasaki’s recovery will be to throw three simulated innings this Friday, after which he will begin a formal minor league rehab assignment.
If all goes well, Sasaki could return to the first team in late August, just in time to bolster the rotation for the stretch run and a possible postseason.
Why is Roki Sasaki so special to the Dodgers?
Roki Sasaki, also known as “the Japanese phenomenon,” became internationally famous for his speed and accuracy. In Japan, he pitched a perfect game and several times exceeded 100 miles per hour. His arrival at the Dodgers was seen as a strategic move for the future, but also with an immediate impact.
Despite initial difficulties, many experts believe that Sasaki has the potential to become one of the best pitchers in MLB if he manages to fully adapt.
Roki Sasaki’s return not only represents hope for the Dodgers, but also an opportunity for the young talent to prove his true potential on baseball’s most competitive stage.
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