Sakiroki Suzuki Named Dodger's First Pitcher Despite Spring Training Struggles
The Los Angeles Dodgers have announced they will start pitcher Roki Sasaki on opening day this season, signaling confidence in his long-term potential after a difficult and inconsistent 2026 campaign. Although the Japanese right-hander struggled significantly during recent games—allowing three runs against LA over just one-third of an inning earlier—he has now been selected to open as part of their starting rotation rather than being moved back into relief or out for good news reports indicate that Sasaki's team believes in his future potential and patience.
Key Points
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1The LA Dodgers have announced Roki Sassi will start as their opening pitcher despite his difficult spring training performance.
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2Sasaki recently endured another erratic outing where he allowed three runs in just 3 and one-third innings against the Kansas City Royals.
Developments
Roki Saki made his final scheduled appearance in the Los Angeles Dodgers' 10-4 win over Kansas City but struggled with command by allowing three runs on four hits while walking nine batters. Despite striking out ten and finishing a perfect spring-training record, manager Dave Roberts noted that efficiency issues remain as concerns for when he starts against regular-season opponents next week
Roki Sassen started for the Los Angeles Dodgers against the Kansas City Royals on March 18 due to command issues and calf cramping concerns in Surprise Arizona despite playing parts of six innings. He was credited with three-and-one-third strikeouts while allowing four walks, including a leadoff double off his wall that contributed significantly to their loss by Starling Marte's hit