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The Los Angeles Dodgers are closely monitoring rookie pitcher Roki Sasaki, as concerns about his declining fastball velocity continue to mount. Once known for consistently throwing 98-101 mph in Japan, the highly touted right-hander has seen his heater dip to an average of 94.9 mph, raising questions about his command and effectiveness in Major League Baseball.
Sasaki's struggles were evident in his latest outing against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Despite the Dodgers securing a 14-11 victory, the 23-year-old allowed two home runs in the first inning and was pulled in the fifth after issuing a lead-off walk. He threw just 61 pitches, marking his eighth start of the season.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts addressed the issue postgame, downplaying the velocity concerns but emphasizing the need for improved command. "I'm more concerned about the command," Roberts said. "If you don't have velocity when you're talking 98, 99, then command becomes more of a priority, which I think it should be regardless."
Recognizing his own demons
Sasaki himself acknowledged his struggles, stating through his interpreter that he is still working with coaches to determine the root cause of his fastball's inconsistency. Dodgers pitching coach Mark Prior believes Sasaki has been deliberately dialing back his velocity to improve command, but the adjustment has led to a flatter fastball-making it easier for hitters to attack.
With an ERA of 3.86, Sasaki has shown flashes of promise, but his inconsistency has sparked league-wide discussion. His inability to locate pitches precisely has made him vulnerable, and Dodgers coaches are now focused on refining his command rather than chasing velocity.
While Sasaki remains one of the most intriguing young arms in baseball, the Dodgers are keeping a close eye on his development. For now, the hope is that he can regain control, adjust to MLB competition, and prove he belongs among the league's elite pitchers.