Los Angeles Dodgers’ rookie Roki Sasaki was placed on the injured list Tuesday due to a right shoulder impingement, a condition similar to one he experienced while playing in Japan last year. The injury came after Sasaki reported discomfort following his last start, where he pitched for the first time on five days’ rest in the major leagues.
Despite his injury, he tried to push through the discomfort until he felt his performance was compromised. Sasaki’s injury was confirmed after scans were conducted on Monday during an off day, although a timeline for his return has not yet been determined.
Sasaki’s Injury Linked to Previous Shoulder Fatigue, Dodgers Hope for Full Recovery.
Sasaki, 23, has made eight starts for the Dodgers, posting a 1-1 record with a 4.72 ERA. In 34⅓ innings, he has struck out 24 batters while limiting opposing hitters to a .225 average. His most recent outing was against the Arizona Diamondbacks, where he allowed five runs in four innings on 61 pitches. Originally scheduled to start against the Athletics on Thursday, the Dodgers are now likely to use a bullpen game in his place.
Sasaki’s injury seems to be related to past shoulder fatigue that limited him to 18 starts and 111 innings during his final year in Japan. The Dodgers’ manager, Dave Roberts, expressed relief that the scans showed the current issue was similar to his previous injury, offering some familiarity in terms of treatment. The team is optimistic that with rest, Sasaki will regain his strength and return to his normal pitching form once fully healed.
Sasaki’s Injury Adds to Dodgers’ Pitching Struggles, Team Hopes for Postseason Bounce-Back.
Though Sasaki was known for his blazing fastball, which reached 100 mph in Japan and during his MLB debut, his velocity has dipped to the mid-90s in recent games. Roberts emphasized that the team is still trying to assess Sasaki’s physical condition and performance. The goal is to get Sasaki healthy, strong, and back to pitching at his best without sending him to the minor leagues. Despite his struggles, the team is hopeful that the time on the IL will serve as a reset for the rookie.
Sasaki’s injury adds to the challenges facing the Dodgers’ pitching staff, already dealing with injuries to Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow. However, the team is hopeful that Clayton Kershaw, who is set to make his season debut on Saturday after starting the season on the IL, can help stabilize the rotation. With Sasaki’s return uncertain, the Dodgers are relying on a mix of strategies, including bullpen games, to weather the storm. The injury could ultimately help Sasaki recharge and be more effective during the postseason push.
