Rookie Right-Hander Sasaki Brings Dodgers Some Postseason Relief

Out of rehab into the spotlight, Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki is thrilled to be part of the NLCS excitement in Los Angeles.
Rookie Right-Hander Sasaki Brings Dodgers Some Postseason Relief
Roki Sasaki #11 of the Los Angeles Dodgers pitches against the Philadelphia Phillies during the ninth inning in game four of the National League Division Series at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, Calif., on Oct. 9, 2025. Harry How/Getty Images
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As the Los Angeles Dodgers headed into the playoffs, their relievers were dropping like a Clayton Kershaw curveball. But all it took to straighten out the postseason bullpen was a Roki Sasaki fastball.

In September, L.A. was blowing late leads and losing close games at a rate that compelled the local media to pepper Dodgers manager Dave Roberts with question after needling question about Tanner Scott and the failing arms in the bullpen.

John E. Gibson
John E. Gibson
Author
John E. Gibson has covered pro baseball in Japan for about 20 years and brings great knowledge and insight across the sports spectrum. His experience includes stints at The Orange County Register, The Inland Valley Daily Bulletin, The Redlands Daily Facts and The Yomiuri Shimbun’s English newspaper in Tokyo.