Roki Sasaki Addresses Possible Minor League Demotion After Struggles
Dodgers starting pitcher Roki Sasaki is going through a turbulent time in his young career, and a minor league could be coming.
Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Roki Sasaki is going through a turbulent time in his young career, and while he will start the season in the major league rotation, his status going forward hinges on results. Sasaki came to MLB much earlier than expected, which meant he didn’t go through the usual free agency process. Still, he could only receive a signing bonus as an international amateur free agent.
He was one of the most highly-touted players from Japan, with scouts believing he could develop into a top-tier ace with nasty stuff and a bold pitching style. However, as a starting pitcher, Sasaki has shown potential but has regularly faced serious mechanical and delivery issues, making it difficult for him to attack the strike zone and establish his pitch mix effectively. Mar 23, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki (11) reacts after allowing a walk during the first inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Dodger Stadium.
Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images After going on the injured list in 2025, Sasaki returned as a reliever due to the Dodgers’ needs at the position. He was electric when he came on, giving the team stability, but it came with the promise that he would return to the rotation at the start of the new season. Come the preseason of 2026, the Japanese pitcher has started all four of his Spring Training games, pitching a total of 8.
2 innings. However, he has given up 15 runs, nine hits, and 15 free passes, while only getting 12 strikeouts. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dodgers Nation (@dodgersnation) Roki Sasaki to the minor leagues?