Dodgers Facing Clear Roki Sasaki Decision After Latest Injury

The Los Angeles Dodgers are looking for a three-peat, but were handed some tough injury news.

Roki Sasaki left his start on Wednesday due to a blister on his right middle finger. He left his start after just 66 pitches, and it’s likely he will be placed on the injured list due to the injury.

With Sasaki likely going on the injured list, Eric Lauer will likely take over his spot in the rotation. Sasaki said postgame that he has a history of blisters from his time in Japan. So, the injury and going on the IL will force the Dodgers to make a decision: move him to the bullpen.

When Sasaki comes back from the IL, he should be put in the bullpen as a high-leverage reliever for the team for the playoffs. Sasaki thrived in the role in last year’s playoffs, as he was a solid late-inning option for manager Dave Roberts.

There was some hope Sasaki could potentially be part of the Dodgers’ playoff rotation. However, Sasaki’s injury likely seals that he will be in the bullpen, as there might not be enough time for him to build back up as a starter after his IL stint.

Instead, the Dodgers should likely have a playoff rotation of Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tarik Skubal, Blake Snell, and Tyler Glasnow. Shohei Ohtani, meanwhile, is also closing in on a return to pitching and could start playoff games if needed.

So, Sasaki will once again be back in the bullpen for the playoffs, and that could end up being his future role. Sasaki has struggled at times as a starter and can’t stay healthy, bolstering the rationale for him being a high-leverage reliever and potentially, the Dodgers’ long-term closer.

Los Angeles already has some bullpen concerns due to Edwin Diaz’s struggles this season. So, a backend of Sasaki and Tanner Scott would make Los Angeles that much more difficult to play against come the postseason.

Dodgers Confirm Roki Sasaki Will Be Placed on IL