Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Roki Sasaki Career News Emerges Amid MLB Offseason

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Hugh Green | Last updated Dec 8, 2025 1:05 PM ET

The Los Angeles Dodgers claimed their second consecutive World Series title this past season, taking down the Toronto Blue Jays in seven games in the Fall Classic. A big part of their run throughout the playoffs was the incredible pitching of rookie right-hander Roki Sasaki.

The 24-year-old Japan native was primarily a starter for the Dodgers during the regular season. He made 10 appearances with eight starts, pitching to a 4.46 ERA with 28 strikeouts and 22 walks in 36 1/3 innings.

While he saw some success during the year, Sasaki battled through injuries that sidelined him for much of the season.

Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Roki Sasaki (11) pitches against the Atlanta Braves.Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

Sasaki came back for the Dodgers' playoff run in a different role, as he was switched to the bullpen due to his injury recovery. As a reliever, Sasaki was lights out.

He made nine appearances in the postseason, tossing 10 2/3 innings with a 0.84 ERA. This included three saves and multiple high-leverage situations he helped Los Angeles escape.

On Monday, news came out about Sasaki and his home country of Japan.

"Roki Sasaki is on Japan’s preliminary roster for the World Baseball Classic," said national MLB reporter Francys Romero. "The 24-year-old pitcher is expected to have no issues making the final roster, per source."

Roki Sasaki is on Japan’s preliminary roster for the World Baseball Classic.

The 24-year-old pitcher is expected to have no issues making the final roster, per source.
— Francys Romero (@francysromeroFR) December 8, 2025

Before joining the Dodgers this past season, Sasaki was a star in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball league. In four years with the Chiba Lotte Marines, he had a 29-15 record with a 2.10 ERA, 505 strikeouts and just 88 walks.

Sasaki will likely join his Dodgers teammates Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto during the 2026 WBC, which will take place in March.

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

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