Dodgers’ Promise to Roki Sasaki During World Series Revealed

The Los Angeles Dodgers are stubbornly sticking by pitcher Roki Sasaki, even as he has failed to impress as a starter. Sasaki is in his second year in MLB after a rocky rookie year with the Dodgers. He made a handful of starts before hitting the injured list.

The righty moved into the bullpen for the postseason due to the team’s need for reliable arms, and he shone with his reliable two-pitch combination. However, according to reporting from The California Post ‘s Dylan Hernandez , Sasaki made the move into the bullpen under a specific pretense — the Dodgers would give him the chance to be a starting pitcher in 2026. “Sasaki agreed to pitch in relief under the condition that he be given an opportunity to start this year,” Hernandez wrote in the story.

Mar 3, 2026; Goodyear, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Roki Sasaki (11) leaves the game against the Cleveland Guardians during the first inning at Goodyear Ballpark. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images Sasaki has pitched 6. 2 innings during spring training, walking nine batters and striking out 10 in Cactus League games.

He has allowed nine hits and 10 runs charged to his name over three starts. His command has been totally shot at times. His mechanics cannot be repeated, which can lead to a loss of feel.