Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

Dodgers Facing Roki Sasaki Question After Latest Development

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Joey Mistretta | Last updated Mar 23, 2026 10:56 PM ET

Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Roki Sasaki's spring training came to an end on Monday night, and it is safe to say that things did not go according to plan. Sasaki lasted just two innings and surrendered four runs against the Los Angeles Angels. He also walked six hitters. According to Jack Harris of The California Post, Sasaki's final spring training ERA is 14.54.

Sasaki is going to be in the starting rotation in 2026. The Dodgers still believe in his potential. However, LA may need to make a difficult decision at some point if Sasaki cannot get back on track during the regular season.

One has to wonder if the Dodgers would consider moving him to Triple-A so he can pitch in a less competitive environment. Sasaki would be able to work on pitching-related concerns without the pressure of being with the Dodgers. A move to the bullpen may also be an option if Sasaki struggles to begin the regular season.

For now, Sasaki is going to stay in the rotation barring unforeseen circumstances. The Dodgers want to do everything they can to repeat as champions for a third consecutive season, though. If Sasaki is unable to help them accomplish that goal, Los Angeles has plenty of other starting pitching candidates to turn to.

Roki Sasaki's Early-Career Struggles

Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki (11)Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Sasaki is still only 24 years old. He was expected to be a star when he signed with Los Angeles last year. The right-handed starter struggled across 10 outings in 2025 though, pitching to a 4.46 ERA. He was able to find success in the postseason, turning in a 0.84 ERA and three saves in nine outings out of the bullpen.

Sasaki's playoff performance last year could lead to the Dodgers moving him to the bullpen if he is unable to get things going from a starting pitching standpoint. The goal remains to have Sasaki in the rotation. According to Katie Woo, Sasaki will join Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tyler Glasnow, Emmet Sheehan and Shohei Ohtani in the starting rotation. Justin Wrobleski will serve in a more versatile role.

Dodgers set their Opening Day rotation, per Dave Roberts: Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tyler Glasnow, Roki Sasaki, Emmet Sheehan, Shohei Ohtani. Justin Wrobleski will be available as a piggyback first time through, but Dodgers do expect him to take some starts as well.
— Katie Woo (@katiejwoo) March 23, 2026

The Dodgers currently trail the Angels 4-0 in their exhibition contest. The Los Angeles ball clubs will play one more exhibition matchup on Tuesday before the new season gets underway.

On Thursday night, the Dodgers will host the Arizona Diamondbacks for their first game of the 2026 regular season.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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