Dodgers make surprising decision about their starting rotation
The Los Angeles Dodgers are making it clear they believe in their young star. Despite a difficult spring training, the Dodgers have announced that Roki Sasaki will open the season as part of the team’s starting rotation—a decision that reflects both confidence in his long-term potential and patience with his early struggles. The decision is especially surprising when you look at Sasaki’s Spring training numbers.
Sasaki posted a horrendous 13. 50 ERA, and in his most recent start, he walked four batters while allowing three HR in just 3. 1 innings.
MORE: Top 5 catchers in MLB heading into the season A Tough Spring Showing Mar 3, 2026; Goodyear, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Roki Sasaki (11) pitches against the Cleveland Guardians during the second inning at Goodyear Ballpark. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images Sasaki’s spring training did not go as planned. The highly touted right-hander struggled with command and consistency, allowing more hard contact than expected and showing occasional difficulty locating his pitches.
For a pitcher known for elite stuff, the results raised questions about whether he would be ready for Opening Day. However, the Dodgers appear to be looking beyond the small sample size. Last season as a starter wasn’t very encouraging either for Sasaki, and there are now doubts beginning to creep in among executives in the organization.
Sasaki is going to need to prove that he belongs in the big leagues. Betting on Elite Talent Sasaki remains one of the most electric young pitchers in the world, featuring a fastball with elite velocity and a devastating splitter that has overwhelmed hitters at every level. The Dodgers decision suggests they view his spring struggles as temporary rather than indicative of long-term issues.