Dodgers Set Expectations for Sasaki’s Spring Training Start

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts revealed what he expects from starter Roki Sasaki during his start on Tuesday.

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Sasaki last pitched in a Cactus League game March 3 against the Cleveland Guardians, where he left the game in the first inning after allowing a grand slam without recording an out. He came back into the game to pitch a total of two innings and didn’t allow another run, but he clearly still needed some work.

He got that work in a minor league game a week later, where he threw four innings and struck out nine batters while only allowing a leadoff single in the first round.

“The last outing was really good, albeit on the other side,” Roberts said. “I’m looking to see it for myself, just more of what he did. If he can throw the fastball the way he did, throw the split the way he did, he should be able to manage major-league hitters. I’m really excited about what we see from him tomorrow.”

The Dodgers will face the Kansas City Royals on Tuesday, and will hope Sasaki can bounce back from his 18.90-ERA start to spring training.

Mar 3, 2026; Goodyear, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Roki Sasaki (11) pitches against the Cleveland Guardians during the third inning at Goodyear Ballpark. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

What is Roki Sasaki’s Role with the Dodgers in 2026?

Sasaki began his MLB career as a starter, but put together an impressive stretch towards the end of the season and the postseason during his rookie year.

He allowed just one earned run through his final 12.2 innings pitched last season, and played an integral part in the Dodgers’ World Series run. Despite this, the Dodgers still plan to have him play as a starter in the coming season.

“I don’t see a world in which Roki Sasaki doesn’t [open the season] as a starter,” Roberts said, per The LA Times’ Jack Vita. “…I guess I’m betting on the performance to continue to trend up, to be good enough, and to only get better with the talent that he has and the work that he’s put in.”

Sasaki will have to prove himself as a starter throughout the remainder of spring training and the early season despite being a shoo-in for the Opening Day rotation, though, as he is one of several pitchers looking to get a shot as a starter in 2026.

Are you excited for Roki Sasaki’s start Tuesday? Or will you be watching the WBC final?

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