The Los Angeles Dodgers are having a great season and are at the top of the MLB standings with the best record in the league. But even the best teams have challenges and for the Dodgers one of those challenges is their rookie pitcher Rōki Sasaki. Despite his potential and promise Sasaki’s early season struggles could lead to a surprising move: a demotion to the minors.
Sasaki’s Struggles in the Spotlight
Rōki Sasaki entered the 2025 season as one of the most hyped prospects in baseball. The Dodgers had two goals this year: win the World Series again and develop Sasaki in the big leagues. The first is well within reach, the second is proving to be tougher than expected.
Through his first 8 starts Sasaki has a 4.72 ERA, striking out 24 batters but walking 22. His command has been a problem and his fastball has been particularly troublesome. According to Yardbarker’s David Hill Sasaki’s velocity issues have been a problem and he’s given up a home run in each of his last 5 starts.
“Sasaki had shown signs of progress before Friday’s start,” Hill wrote. “Sasaki isn’t dominating but he was getting better each start. Friday was a step back.”
Sasaki showed flashes of improvement early on but his inconsistency has raised questions about his readiness for the big leagues. With the Dodgers rotation getting Clayton Kershaw, Tyler Glasnow and Blake Snell back Sasaki’s spot in the rotation is far from secure.
The Dodgers’ Pitching Dilemma
The Dodgers’ bullpen has been worked to death this season, logging more innings than any other team in the league. That’s largely because of the injuries in the starting rotation. But as Kershaw, Glasnow, and Snell get healthy, the Dodgers will have tough decisions to make.
Sasaki’s recent struggles have put him in a bind. The team is in a tight race with the Padres and Giants for the NL West title and every game matters. Unless Sasaki can figure out his fastball and get his confidence back, a trip to the minors might be the best for him and the team.
Why the Dodgers Will Send Sasaki Down
Sending a top prospect like Sasaki to the minors isn’t easy but it might be the right move for his development. At 23 years old, Sasaki is still learning how to navigate major league pitching. A stint in the minors could help him work on his mechanics, command and consistency.
Plus the Dodgers’ rotation is about to get crowded. With three veteran starters returning soon, there won’t be room for Sasaki to get regular starts. For a young pitcher still finding his way, inconsistent playing time could stunt his growth.
What’s Next for Sasaki?
If Sasaki does go down, it won’t be because of his talent or potential—it’ll be a strategic move for his long term success. The Dodgers have a history of developing young pitchers patiently and Sasaki could benefit from that.
In the meantime the Dodgers will keep trying to defend their World Series title while preparing for the return of their injured stars. For Sasaki it’ll be about getting his form back and proving he belongs.