Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki took a bold step in his recent Spring Training debut by deciding to call his own pitches. Using the PitchCom device, Sasaki communicated directly with catcher Dalton Rushing, showcasing his desire to take control on the mound.
During his outing, Sasaki leaned heavily on his fastball, aiming to establish it early in the game. As he settled in, he began mixing in other pitches, including a newly developed cutter and a sinker, giving a glimpse of his expanding arsenal.
This season is pivotal for the Japanese pitcher, as each appearance carries significant weight. In his 1.1 innings of work, Sasaki threw 27 pitches, surrendering three earned runs on three hits, while recording two strikeouts and a walk.
Through his interpreter, Sasaki explained his decision: “I called my pitches by myself because I wanted to try something. I wanted to try my own pitches that I wanted to make.”
Rather than easing Sasaki into the majors through the minor leagues, the Dodgers opted to place him directly on the big stage. Although injuries and inconsistency have challenged him in the past, Sasaki enters this season healthy and ready to prove his worth as a major league starter.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts offered insight into Sasaki’s performance, noting a departure from his usual mechanics. “Honestly, today was the first day I thought he came out of his mechanics. I just thought he was overthrowing,” Roberts remarked.
Roberts emphasized the importance of Sasaki’s split-finger pitch, suggesting it should be the foundation of his approach. “The main thing is he’s got to pitch off of his split.
He can strike it, shorten it. Then mix in the fastball, commanded.”
Despite the rocky start, Roberts remains optimistic about Sasaki’s potential, attributing the outing to early-season rust. “That first inning I don’t think he used his split at all. So, yeah, I’m just going to chalk this one up to his first outing.”
Dodgers fans have reason to be excited about Sasaki’s assertiveness in calling his own game, a clear sign that his confidence is very much alive. As he continues to adjust and refine his skills, Sasaki’s journey will be one to watch this season.