Mon Mar 31 10:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Dodger’s Hot Start Cooled by Sasaki’s Struggles

**Los Angeles, CA** – Highly touted Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki’s highly anticipated Dodger Stadium debut ended prematurely Saturday night, raising concerns about the young star’s transition to Major League Baseball. The 23-year-old, hailed as one of Japan’s top pitching prospects, struggled mightily with control, lasting only 1 ⅔ innings against the Detroit Tigers.

Sasaki walked four batters, allowed two runs on three singles, and recorded just five outs before being pulled by manager Dave Roberts. He threw 61 pitches to 12 batters, struggling to command his pitches and consistently falling behind in the count. While his manager and catcher attributed some of the struggles to nerves, Sasaki himself insisted he felt calm, but simply lacked his usual effectiveness. His signature splitter also proved inconsistent.

Despite the rough outing, the Dodgers remain confident in Sasaki’s potential. Catcher Will Smith emphasized Sasaki’s experience pitching on large stages and expressed belief in his ability to improve. Manager Dave Roberts echoed this sentiment, noting that it’s early in Sasaki’s MLB career and that such struggles are a part of the learning process.

The Dodgers ultimately won the game 7-3, thanks to their powerful offense and bullpen which covered for Sasaki’s early exit. Sasaki’s next start is scheduled for next weekend in Philadelphia, giving him time to work on his control issues before his next appearance. The team’s upcoming schedule offers Sasaki ample rest opportunities. The club is also anticipating the return of Shohei Ohtani to the rotation in May, which may lead to a six-man rotation. While the early results are less than ideal, the Dodgers are clearly taking a long-term view of Sasaki’s development.

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