Before stepping into the spotlight with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Roki Sasaki was in a challenging position both physically and mentally. Dubbed a prodigious talent, he entered the MLB with immense expectations, much like his teammate Shohei Ohtani, who is often heralded for his two-way prowess. However, Sasaki experienced a tumultuous midseason; plagued by shoulder issues, his once-dominant fastball became alarmingly hittable, pushing him further down the Dodgers’ roster as the team prepared for crucial playoff battles.
As the Dodgers gear up to face the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Championship Series, Sasaki has emerged as a pivotal player, proving to be an invaluable asset from the bullpen. After a remarkable performance in the NL Division Series against the Philadelphia Phillies, where he pitched three perfect innings, the 23-year-old has re-established himself as a force on the mound. His fastball has regained its velocity, consistently reaching triple digits, while his unique splitter has made him a complicated challenge for opposing batters.
Manager Dave Roberts praised Sasaki’s performance, calling it one of the most memorable bullpen appearances he’s experienced. Teammates echoed this sentiment, pointing to Sasaki’s remarkable turnaround as a highlight of his brief postseason career. In just over five innings this postseason, he has made a significant impact, especially considering the struggles of the rest of the Dodgers’ bullpen, which allowed 13 earned runs in relief efforts outside of Sasaki’s contributions.
The journey back to form for Sasaki was not instantaneous. Earlier this year, he was floundering during a rehab assignment in Oklahoma City, grappling with diminished fastball velocity and a lack of confidence stemming from injury-riddled seasons. This downward spiral raised questions within the organization about his future, especially as he struggled in Major League Baseball after a standout career in Japan, where he nearly achieved consecutive perfect games.
However, a turning point arrived when the Dodgers staff provided him with targeted coaching. Through hours of video analysis and adjustments focused on his arm slot and delivery mechanics, Sasaki was able to rekindle the ferocity he was known for in Japan. The changes led to heightened velocity and improved command, which rejuvenated both his fastball and off-speed pitches.
With the Dodgers grappling with bullpen fatigue as the postseason neared, Sasaki’s transition to a relief role became a strategic necessity. This decision has not only restored his status but has also unlocked a newfound confidence and tenacity on the mound. His ability to execute under pressure signifies not just a physical return, but a mental path back to the ace the Dodgers envisioned when they signed him.
Sasaki’s resurgence symbolizes the unpredictability of athlete recovery and the power of perseverance in professional sports. As he steps onto the field in the National League Championship Series, the “Monster of the Reiwa Era” showcases the potential for greatness that lies within, offering hope for a Dodgers team looking to secure further postseason success.