The Los Angeles Dodgers are the best team in Major League Baseball and still have room to improve, as multiple key pieces are close to returning from injury.
The Dodgers have the best record in the league, despite multiple pitchers dealing with injuries. Los Angeles has used its bullpen more than any other team in the league, while having the fewest starter pitcher innings. As Clayton Kershaw, Tyler Glasnow and Blake Snell make progress with their return from injury, rookie pitcher Rōki Sasaki could end up being the odd man out of the rotation.
With Sasaki’s early-season struggles and the imminent return of multiple pitchers, the Dodgers may demote the 23-year-old rookie, according to Yardbarker’s David Hill.
“The Los Angeles Dodgers entered the 2025 season with two goals: to repeat as World Series champions and to develop Roki Sasaki at the major league level,” Hill wrote. “So far, so good for the first goal. The same cannot be said for Sasaki’s transition to the majors. Sasaki had displayed signs of progress before Friday’s outing. Sasaki may not be dominating, but he got better each start. Friday was a step back.”
“Time is not on Sasaki’s side. The Dodgers’ pitching staff will return significant pieces in the rotation shortly. Meanwhile, Los Angeles will attempt to fend off the San Diego Padres and San Francisco Giants for the NL West crown. Unless Sasaki and the Dodgers figure out his fastball woes, a trek to the minors may be in his future.”
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Sasaki has a 4.72 ERA through his first eight career starts with 24 strikeouts, but has also allowed 22 walks. He has been dealing with velocity issues with his fastball and has given up a home run in each of his last five outings. Though Sasaki was a highly touted prospect, the young hurler may need some time in the minor leagues to develop further as the Dodgers’ pitching staff gets healthier.
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