Dodgers Remain Patient with Roki Sasaki

The Dodgers are taking a long-term approach with the 24-year-old right-hander as he works on adding new pitches to his repertoire.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 12:04pm

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Roki Sasaki, a 24-year-old right-handed pitcher, has struggled with command during spring training as he works on incorporating new pitches into his repertoire. Despite this, the Dodgers have remained exceedingly patient with Sasaki, insisting that he will start the season in the starting rotation rather than being optioned to the minors to continue his development.

Why it matters

The Dodgers' decision to keep Sasaki on the major league roster, even as he works through command issues, reflects the team's long-term view of the young pitcher's potential. The Dodgers believe Sasaki has the talent to be a successful major league starter, and they are willing to invest the time and resources necessary to help him reach that goal.

The details

Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman explained the team's approach, saying, "There's obviously a big gap between Triple-A and the big leagues. With certain really talented young players that we really believe in, we think that last mile of player development is generally better served at the major-league level." Friedman added that the team is committed to pouring everything they can into helping Sasaki succeed at the major league level as soon as possible.

  • Roki Sasaki has struggled with command this spring training.

The players

Roki Sasaki

A 24-year-old right-handed pitcher in the Dodgers organization who is working on adding new pitches to his repertoire.

Dave Roberts

The manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Andrew Friedman

The president of baseball operations for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

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What they’re saying

“There's obviously a big gap between Triple-A and the big leagues. With certain really talented young players that we really believe in, we think that last mile of player development is generally better served at the major-league level.”

— Andrew Friedman, President of Baseball Operations, Los Angeles Dodgers

“I wouldn't say our mindset is all that different. But obviously, when you're in a moment in time with an incredibly talented roster, I think the mindset is, 'Don't sit back on your heels, be aggressive, and don't be nonchalant about the opportunity that we have in front of us.' And so it's more the idea of pressing an advantage and being aggressive on that front.”

— Andrew Friedman, President of Baseball Operations, Los Angeles Dodgers

What’s next

The Dodgers will continue to work with Roki Sasaki throughout the season as he develops his new pitches and aims to solidify his spot in the starting rotation.

The takeaway

The Dodgers' patience and long-term approach with Roki Sasaki reflects the team's commitment to developing young talent and their belief in Sasaki's potential to be a successful major league starter, even if it takes time for him to fully harness his abilities at the big league level.