The Los Angeles Dodgers’ biggest headache in 2023 is their bullpen. The team has 23 blown saves and converts just 62% of its opportunities, one of the worst figures among contenders. This weakness has cost key games in September and threatens to put the dream of repeating as World Series champions at risk.
The unexpected candidate
In the midst of this uncertainty, one name is beginning to gain momentum: Roki Sasaki. The 23-year-old Japanese pitcher has had an inconsistent path in his rehabilitation, with a 7.07 ERA and control problems. However, in his last outing he surprised by averaging 98.3 mph, touching 100.6 mph and recording 16 strikeouts, showing that his arm can still be a determining factor.
The performance sparked debate. Journalist Mark Feinsand of MLB.com claimed that Sasaki’s speed “is back” and could be key in October. Yonder Alonso, laughing, compared the Dodgers to the “CIA of baseball”, alluding to the mystery of how they will use the rookie. Manager Dave Roberts did not rule anything out: “Everything should be on the table, whether it’s keeping him as a starter or taking him to the bullpen”.
The gap is in the relay
The Angels’ rotation is covered with Yamamoto, Snell, Glasnow, Kershaw, Sheehan and Ohtani, one of the most complete in MLB. The problem is in the bullpen: Tanner Scott leads the league with nine blown saves and Treinen has also failed in pressure moments. The reliance on rookies such as Casparius, Dreyer and Wrobleski reflects the magnitude of the problem.
Although the expectation is growing, it is all speculation. Sasaki has been a starter throughout his career (69 starts in Japan and 13 in the United States) and adapting him to the role of reliever would be a drastic change. In addition, his numbers in the Major Leagues (22 walks and 24 strikeouts) raise doubts. The question remains: will Roki Sasaki be Dave Roberts’ ace in the hole or just a passing illusion?
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