Roki Sasaki’s recovery forces a strategic crossroads for Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts: deploy the flamethrower as a high-leverage reliever or vital rotation insurance.
Roki Sasaki moved closer to returning for the Los Angeles Dodgers on Wednesday, completing an encouraging simulated live session as the organization considers how to use him during the postseason.
The right-hander has been rebuilding his strength after a blister on his throwing hand forced the Dodgers to remove him from their rotation.
Instead of making a normal start against the Cincinnati Reds, Sasaki was scheduled to throw four simulated innings Wednesday.
Jack Harris from the California Post reported that the session went well enough to create an important discussion for manager Dave Roberts and the Dodgers.
Sasaki completed four innings and threw 48 pitches during the session. Harris reported that Roberts and the organization will meet to determine whether Sasaki should return as a starter or reliever.
His most likely postseason role would be in the bullpen. However, Sasaki also represents the Dodgers’ best rotation insurance if another starting pitcher suffers an injury late in the season.
“Roki Sasaki’s four-inning/48-pitch live session today went well, per Dave Roberts,” Harris wrote.
“The team is gonna huddle up now and decide if he will return as a starter or reliever. His likely playoff role is in ‘pen, but he’s also their best rotation insurance in case of any late injuries too.”
How Sasaki can help Dodgers
The right-hander proved during the 2025 postseason that he can contribute effectively as a reliever. He posted an 0.84 ERA and 1.03 WHIP in 10.2 innings over nine postseason appearances with three saves and two holds.
The Dodgers could particularly benefit from using him in that capacity because Edgardo Henriquez has been placed on the Injured List because of a back strain while attempting to recover in time to earn a postseason roster spot.
Without Henriquez, Los Angeles lacks an elite right-handed arm in its bullpen. Sasaki could fill that need situationally while working alongside reliable relievers Alex Vesia, Jack Dreyer and Tanner Scott.
However, Dodgers fans understand how quickly circumstances can change. If injuries begin accumulating again, keeping Sasaki prepared to cover multiple innings could provide necessary protection for the rotation.
Sasaki is 5-5 with a 4.60 ERA and 1.33 WHIP in 119.1 innings over 23 starts this season.
His performance had started improving before the blister interrupted his progress. Sasaki went 2-0 with a 2.25 ERA, 1.00 WHIP and 3.44 FIP in his last four starts. He recorded 26 strikeouts and seven walks in 24 innings over that stretch.
Before landing on the Injured List, Sasaki completed at least five innings and allowed no more than two earned runs in three of his final four starts. He also won his last two decisions.
Sasaki’s upside
Sasaki’s versatility gives the Dodgers options that few pitchers can provide. His powerful arsenal can play differently depending on the assignment, allowing him to attack aggressively in short appearances or navigate a lineup as a starter.
He also demonstrated adaptability by moving into the bullpen during the 2025 postseason and handling the pressure of finishing games. That experience should make another transition less difficult.
Sasaki’s willingness to accept either role reflects a team-first mentality. His preparation, velocity and ability to miss bats could strengthen the bullpen, while his stamina and starting experience provide essential insurance.
The Dodgers must decide where he offers the greatest value. Sasaki has already shown he can help them in either role.
