Dodgers' Roki Sasaki struggles in spring training debut

Highly touted Japanese pitcher gives up 3 runs in 1 1/3 innings against Diamondbacks

Feb. 25, 2026 at 9:19pm

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Los Angeles Dodgers right-hander Roki Sasaki, a highly touted Japanese pitcher, had a rough first spring training outing on Wednesday, giving up 3 runs on 3 hits and 2 walks over 1 1/3 innings against the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Why it matters

Sasaki was acquired by the Dodgers in the offseason and is expected to be a key part of their starting rotation this season. His struggles in his spring debut raise questions about his readiness for the regular season and how quickly he can adapt to Major League Baseball.

The details

Sasaki had difficulty finding the strike zone, walking two batters and allowing 3 hits, including a double. The Diamondbacks were able to capitalize on his erratic pitching to score 3 runs in the short outing.

  • Sasaki's spring training debut took place on Wednesday, February 25, 2026.

The players

Roki Sasaki

A right-handed pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers who was acquired in the offseason after a successful career in Nippon Professional Baseball in Japan.

Arizona Diamondbacks

The opposing team that faced Sasaki and the Dodgers in this spring training game.

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What’s next

Sasaki will look to bounce back in his next spring training outing as he continues to adapt to MLB competition and prepare for the regular season.

The takeaway

Sasaki's rough debut raises questions about his readiness for the MLB, but it's still early in spring training and he will have opportunities to work on his command and get more comfortable facing big league hitters.