Insider Reveals Dodgers Level of Concern on Roki Sasaki

Things have worsened for the Dodgers’ pitching rotation as another significant injury has hit the team. Rookie Roki Sasaki is out for an uncertain amount of time with a shoulder impingement.  

It is unknown how long he will be out after having an up-and-down rookie season, but his injury couldn’t come at a worse time for the Dodgers. 

The Athletic’s Fabien Ardaya was on the Foul Territory to talk about Sasaki’s injury and how it could affect him in the long run. 

“I think they should be at least somewhat worried, especially since this is a shoulder issue he was dealing with last year, too," Ardaya said. "Is this a chronic thing? Is this something that can be corrected? Is this something that the way he throws is going to lead them to shoulder issues and the velocity is not going to get back to where he is.” 

Ardaya went on to talk about the specifics of Sasaki’s fastball velocity before the injury and how much it was affected afterwards. 

In eight games played, Sasaki has posted a season ERA of 4.72 and delivered 24 strikeouts, allowing 29 hits, 18 runs, and 22 walks. Even without the injury, Sasaki would need much more help and development.