Roki Sasaki Set to Electrify Fans as Dodgers Confirm His Next Start Date in Thrilling MLB Season

The Los Angeles Dodgers have officially announced Roki Sasaki’s next start, sending waves of excitement through the fanbase as the young pitcher prepares to take the mound in a pivotal moment of the 2025 MLB season. Sasaki, a 23-year-old right-hander from Japan, has been a focal point of anticipation since joining the Dodgers, with his electrifying pitching style drawing comparisons to some of the game’s all-time greats. His journey from Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) to the majors has been closely watched, and his upcoming start promises to be a defining moment for both the pitcher and the team as they navigate a highly competitive season. This article delves into Sasaki’s rise, his challenges, his recent performances, and the significance of his next start for the Dodgers’ postseason aspirations.

Sasaki’s Meteoric Rise to Stardom

Roki Sasaki burst onto the international baseball scene with the Chiba Lotte Marines in NPB, where he posted a remarkable 2.10 ERA over four seasons. Known for his triple-digit fastball and devastating splitter, Sasaki quickly became one of the most coveted prospects in baseball. His signing with the Dodgers on January 22, 2025, was a major coup for the franchise, adding him to an already formidable rotation that includes Japanese superstars Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto. The Dodgers’ decision to bring Sasaki to the majors was seen as a bold move to bolster their pitching depth, particularly for the high-stakes environment of the Tokyo Series, where Sasaki made his MLB debut in Game 2 on March 19, 2025.

Sasaki’s early performances in spring training showcased his immense potential. In a Cactus League start against the Cleveland Guardians, he threw four scoreless innings, allowing just one hit and two walks while striking out two. His splitter, in particular, was a standout, with one pitch described as diving “straight down” to freeze Guardians outfielder Tyler Freeman for a called strike three. Despite needing only 41 pitches to get through those innings, Sasaki was self-critical, noting inconsistencies in his lower-body mechanics that he aimed to address before the regular season. This mentality—combining elite talent with a relentless drive to improve—has endeared him to fans and coaches alike.

Challenges in the Majors

Despite the hype surrounding his arrival, Sasaki’s transition to MLB has not been without hurdles. His rookie season got off to a rocky start, with a 4.72 ERA through his first eight starts, a stark contrast to his dominant NPB numbers. Observers noted a noticeable drop in his fastball velocity, which raised concerns about his health and adjustment to the majors’ grueling schedule. The pressure of performing in a high-profile market like Los Angeles, coupled with the expectations placed on him as MLB’s No. 1 prospect, seemed to weigh heavily on the young pitcher.

In mid-May, Sasaki was placed on the 15-day injured list with a right shoulder impingement, an injury he had also dealt with during his time with the Chiba Lotte Marines. The Dodgers revealed that Sasaki had been pitching through discomfort for weeks, a decision that may have contributed to his early struggles. Manager Dave Roberts emphasized a cautious approach, prescribing multiple weeks of rest before Sasaki began a throwing program in late May. This injury setback sidelined him for an extended period, delaying his return to the majors and raising questions about his role with the team as the season progressed.

The Road to Recovery

Sasaki’s rehab assignment with Triple-A Oklahoma City began on August 14, 2025, after he faced live batters at Dodger Stadium. His initial outings were underwhelming, with his fastball velocity significantly lower than his NPB peak and a lack of strikeouts that concerned the Dodgers’ coaching staff. Roberts was candid about the need for Sasaki to dominate minor league competition before earning a call-up, stating, “The bar is high right now, because we’re in a pennant race. So to warrant pitching on our staff right now, there’s got to be urgency on his part and really dominant performance.”

However, Sasaki’s most recent rehab start on September 10, 2025, against the Sacramento River Cats (the San Francisco Giants’ Triple-A affiliate) marked a significant turning point. In 4 2/3 innings, he struck out eight batters, walked four, and allowed three runs on three hits, throwing 90 pitches (52 strikes). Most encouragingly, his fastball velocity showed signs of returning to form, averaging 98.6 mph and hitting triple digits six times. He also generated a season-high 16 whiffs, signaling that his signature splitter was regaining its bite. Roberts praised the outing, noting, “That’s great. That’s a good thing for the Dodgers and for Roki.” This performance has fueled optimism that Sasaki is close to returning to the majors, potentially in a relief role rather than as a starter.

The Dodgers’ Pitching Puzzle

The Dodgers’ 2025 season has been defined by a mix of star power and injury challenges. With Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, and Clayton Kershaw sidelined at various points, the team has leaned heavily on its depth to remain competitive in a tight pennant race. The addition of Sasaki to an already stacked rotation was meant to provide a spark, but his early struggles and subsequent injury forced the Dodgers to adjust their plans. Recent posts on X indicate that the team has made roster moves to bolster its pitching, including activating left-hander Alex Vesia and recalling catcher Chuckie Robinson, suggesting a focus on fine-tuning the roster as the postseason approaches.

Sasaki’s potential return comes at a critical juncture. The Dodgers’ recent victories, including a 13-7 win over the Giants and a sweep of the Rockies, have solidified their position in the National League West, but the team is still navigating a competitive landscape. Roberts has hinted that Sasaki could serve as a reliever rather than a starter upon his return, a move that would allow the Dodgers to ease him back into major league action while leveraging his high-velocity fastball and splitter in high-leverage situations. This flexibility could be a game-changer for a bullpen that has been stretched thin at times this season.

The Significance of Sasaki’s Next Start

While the exact date of Sasaki’s next start has not been explicitly confirmed in recent reports, sources indicate that he is scheduled to make at least one more start with Triple-A Oklahoma City before potentially rejoining the Dodgers. A report from September 15, 2025, highlighted the excitement surrounding his return, with fans eagerly anticipating his next opportunity to showcase his electrifying talent. Given his recent rehab performance, this start could be his final tune-up before a major league call-up, possibly as early as late September. The Dodgers’ cautious approach, influenced by a calf issue that extended his rehab beyond the initial 30 days, suggests they are prioritizing his long-term health over a rushed return.

Sasaki’s next start carries significant weight for several reasons. First, it represents a chance for him to prove that he has overcome the physical and mental challenges of his rookie season. His ability to regain his velocity and command will be critical in determining whether he can contribute to the Dodgers’ postseason push. Second, his performance could solidify his role as a reliever, a position where his high-octane pitching could make an immediate impact. Finally, his return adds another layer of excitement to a Dodgers team that already boasts a star-studded lineup, including Ohtani and Yamamoto, making them a formidable force as the playoffs loom.

Fan and Team Expectations

The anticipation surrounding Sasaki’s return is palpable, both in Los Angeles and in Japan, where he remains a national hero. Fans have packed stadiums to watch him pitch, and his upcoming start is expected to draw significant attention, with ticket prices for Dodgers games already commanding premium rates in the resale market. His potential to become a fan favorite is undeniable, as his combination of raw talent and humble demeanor resonates with audiences. Social media posts reflect this enthusiasm, with the Dodgers’ official account celebrating key moments in their season and fans eagerly discussing Sasaki’s progress.

For the Dodgers, Sasaki’s return is about more than just one player. It’s about completing a pitching rotation that was designed to dominate. With Ohtani potentially serving as a closer in the playoffs and Yamamoto anchoring the rotation, Sasaki’s ability to contribute—whether as a starter or reliever—could be the missing piece in the Dodgers’ quest for a World Series title. Roberts’ confidence in Sasaki’s ability to “fight back and answer back” after early struggles underscores the team’s belief in his potential to become a cornerstone of their pitching staff.

Looking Ahead

As the 2025 MLB season heads toward its climax, Roki Sasaki’s next start represents a pivotal moment for both the pitcher and the Los Angeles Dodgers. His journey from NPB phenom to MLB prospect has been marked by highs and lows, but his recent rehab performance suggests he is on the cusp of a breakthrough. Whether he takes the mound as a starter in Triple-A or makes his long-awaited return to the majors, Sasaki’s electrifying talent is poised to captivate fans and potentially reshape the Dodgers’ postseason fortunes.

The Dodgers’ careful management of Sasaki’s recovery, combined with his undeniable potential, sets the stage for a dramatic finish to the season. As Roberts noted, “Anything’s possible” when it comes to Sasaki’s role, and the young pitcher’s next start will be a critical step in determining how he fits into the team’s plans. For now, fans can only wait with bated breath, ready to cheer on a player who has the potential to become one of baseball’s brightest stars.

Roki Sasaki’s next start is more than just a game—it’s a chance to witness the emergence of a generational talent. As the Dodgers continue their push for the playoffs, all eyes will be on the young right-hander to see if he can deliver the kind of performance that has made him a household name in baseball circles. With the season hanging in the balance, Sasaki’s return could be the spark that propels the Dodgers to greatness.