Dave Roberts handled the speculation surrounding Roki Sasaki’s possible rehab stint in the minors in a curious way. When a player signs from a different league overseas, it’s fair to expect a learning curve. Players like Shohei Ohtani and Ichiro Suzuki are rare, generational talents who break that mold.
The Los Angeles Dodgers appeared to be Sasaki’s top choice, and negotiations didn’t take long. That allowed him to quickly immerse himself in Major League Baseball culture. But learning the culture doesn’t guarantee instant success on the mound.
After some rocky starts, many believe a trip to the minors would benefit the 23-year-old right-hander. However, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts offered a different perspective.
Dodgers Skipper Dave Roberts Provides Take on Sasaki Heading to the Minors
When the Dodgers signed Roki Sasaki, they hoped to see flashes of the dominance he showed in Japan. With a three-pitch mix — a fastball that averages 95–97 mph, plus a sharp splitter and slider — Sasaki has the tools. At 6’3″ with an easy delivery, his mechanics also suggest durability.
Still, his first few weeks in the majors didn’t go as hoped. Through eight starts, Sasaki posted a 1–1 record with a 4.72 ERA. In 34 innings, he walked 22 and struck out 24, with a 1.485 WHIP — numbers that reflect shaky control. He also surrendered six home runs.
Under normal circumstances, a team might send a struggling rookie down for a reset. But Roberts doesn’t see it that way. According to a tweet from DodgerBlue, Roberts wants to keep Sasaki on the big-league roster.
Dave Roberts was asked if he believes Roki Sasaki ultimately would benefit from being optioned to the Minors at some point. pic.twitter.com/pjb2ckjZu8
— Dodger Blue (@DodgerBlue1958)
Sasaki has since been placed on the injured list with a right shoulder impingement. There’s currently no timeline for his return, as noted by Doug McKain of Dodgers Nation.
Dave Roberts said there's no timeline for Roki Sasaki's return:
"We didn't know what to expect this year, but to expect him to go wire to wire given his track record, it was probably unrealistic. The goal is to get him healthy, to 100%, & help us get through the World Series."
— Doug McKain (@DMAC_LA)
It raises questions if the Dodgers aren’t planning to send Sasaki to the minors, even for rehab starts. Clayton Kershaw, arguably the franchise’s best pitcher in the last 35 years, is currently making rehab starts. So why not Sasaki?
Does the organization worry about optics — about admitting their prized rookie needs time to reset and sharpen his stuff? If a 17-year veteran can go to the minors to get right, a 23-year-old highly touted prospect should also be able to.
The rules should apply evenly, and Roberts risks setting a dangerous precedent by bending them.
If the Dodgers want long-term success with Sasaki, they can’t be afraid to let him develop like any other player. Treating him differently only adds pressure. A rehab stint could help him grow, as the team benefits too.