Roki Sasaki Progresses Through Rehabilitation, Reports Pain-Free Shoulder

Dodgers’ sasaki Faces Uphill Battle for Postseason Role After Rocky Start

LOS ANGELES, CA – Dodgers pitching sensation Yoshinobu Sasaki is facing an uncertain path to a potential postseason role after a challenging initial stretch in Major League Baseball. Manager Dave Roberts has indicated Sasaki will need to significantly improve his performance to earn a spot on the 13-pitcher roster for October, leaving his future with the team – and potential bullpen consideration – hanging in the balance.

Sasaki, who arrived in Los Angeles with considerable hype after a successful career in Japan, struggled with consistency in his first eight starts, posting a 4.72 ERA and failing to complete six innings in seven outings. He walked 22 batters while striking out just 24 in 34 innings pitched,and his typically dominant fastball velocity dipped into the mid-90s.

“American hitters have a different approach at the plate compared to Japanese hitters,” Sasaki acknowledged, adding that he’s had to adjust his attack strategy.

Currently sidelined with a shoulder impingement, Sasaki is working to refine his mechanics and address the source of his discomfort.He’s experimenting with a two-seam fastball, aiming to complement his splitter and slider and generate more ground balls.

“I have a better understanding a second time through on were the pain came from and how to make sure that the pain doesn’t come back,” Sasaki stated, though admitting his mechanics are “not 100 percent right now.”

Roberts emphasized that postseason roster spots will be earned, not given. “I’m going to hold on that one,” he said when asked about Sasaki perhaps moving to the bullpen. “We’re going to take the 13 best pitchers… If Roki is a part of that in some capacity, then that would be great. And if he’s not, then he won’t be.”

Sasaki understands the challenge ahead. “My every intention is to get back on the major league mound and pitch again,” he said, “but I do need to fight for the opportunity, too.”

The Dodgers’ rotation currently features a mix of established veterans and emerging talent, including Tyler Glasnow, bobby Miller, and Emmet Sheehan, adding further pressure on Sasaki to prove his worth upon his return.

What specific aspects of Sasaki’s rehabilitation program addressed both the physical and mental challenges of his injury?

Sasaki’s Shoulder Recovery: A Timeline of Progress

Roki Sasaki, the Chiba Lotte Marines’ star pitcher, is making critically important strides in his recovery from the right shoulder inflammation that sidelined him in late March. Recent reports indicate Sasaki is now throwing pain-free, a crucial milestone in his return to the NPB (Nippon Professional Baseball) mound. This news is a massive boost for both the Marines and baseball fans eager to see the 22-year-old back in action. The initial diagnosis sparked concerns about a potential serious injury, but the positive updates suggest a more manageable recovery process.

Detailed Update on Sasaki’s Rehabilitation Program

Sasaki’s rehabilitation has been a carefully managed process, overseen by the Marines’ medical staff. Here’s a breakdown of the key stages and recent developments:

Initial Rest & Evaluation (march – April 2025): Following the diagnosis of right shoulder inflammation, Sasaki underwent a period of complete rest. Extensive imaging and evaluations were conducted to determine the extent of the injury and rule out any structural damage.

Light Throwing Program (May 2025): Sasaki began a gradual light throwing program, focusing on range of motion and building strength without stressing the shoulder. This phase involved short-toss sessions and progressively increased throwing distances.

Increased Intensity & Monitoring (June – july 2025): As Sasaki’s shoulder responded positively, the intensity of his throwing sessions was increased. The Marines’ staff closely monitored his progress, paying particular attention to any signs of pain or discomfort. velocity was gradually reintroduced.

Pain-Free Throwing & Bullpen Sessions (August 2025): The latest reports confirm Sasaki is now throwing pain-free, including successful bullpen sessions. He’s reportedly reaching speeds of approximately 90-95 mph, a promising indicator of his regaining full strength. This is a critical step towards a potential return to game action.

The Importance of Pain-Free Throwing for Pitchers

For a power pitcher like Roki Sasaki, pain-free throwing is paramount. Shoulder injuries are common among baseball pitchers, and a complete recovery requires not onyl physical healing but also regaining confidence in the affected joint.

Mechanics & Efficiency: Pain can alter a pitcher’s mechanics, leading to decreased velocity and control. Throwing pain-free allows Sasaki to return to his natural, efficient delivery.

Injury Prevention: Addressing the inflammation and building shoulder strength helps prevent re-injury. A fully rehabilitated shoulder is less susceptible to future strains.

Mental Fortitude: Overcoming a significant injury requires mental toughness. Successfully throwing pain-free boosts a pitcher’s confidence and prepares them for the demands of competitive baseball.

Sasaki’s Pitching Arsenal & Impact on the Marines

Roki Sasaki is renowned for his exceptional fastball, consistently reaching speeds over 160 km/h (99 mph). His arsenal also includes a devastating slider and a developing forkball. His presence in the Marines’ rotation significantly elevates their competitive potential.

Fastball Dominance: Sasaki’s fastball is considered one of the fastest and most challenging to hit in NPB.

Secondary Pitch Development: His slider provides a crucial complementary pitch, keeping hitters off balance.

Ace Potential: Sasaki is widely regarded as a potential ace, capable of leading the Marines to championship contention.

Potential Return Timeline & Future outlook

While a specific return date hasn’t been announced, the progress reported suggests sasaki could potentially rejoin the Marines’ rotation within the next few weeks. The team will likely proceed cautiously, prioritizing his long-term health.

Live Batting Practice: The next step will likely involve facing live batters in controlled environments.

Rehabilitation Games: Sasaki may participate in rehabilitation games to further assess his readiness for game action.

* Gradual Workload Increase: Upon his return, the Marines will likely manage his workload carefully, gradually increasing his pitch count and innings pitched.

The focus remains on ensuring Sasaki’s complete recovery and preventing any setbacks. Baseball fans and the Marines institution alike are eagerly anticipating his return to the mound. The impact of a healthy Roki Sasaki on the NPB landscape is undeniable.