Roki Sasaki’s potential is undeniable, but Dodgers fans remain wary after a rocky rookie season. Catcher Will Smith provided a reassuring update during spring training, highlighting Sasaki’s improvements on the mound. Speaking to SportsNet LA, Smith mentioned that Sasaki “looks good,” and praised the power behind his pitches, saying he is “throwing the ball hard” with a fastball and splitter that “look really good.”
Smith also shared that Sasaki is experimenting with a cutter/slider hybrid and developing a two-seam fastball designed to move away from hitters. This approach aims to prevent batters from predicting Sasaki’s pitching patterns, particularly the heavy fastball-splitter combination.
Sasaki’s Difficult Rookie Season and Its Challenges
Sasaki’s first year with the Dodgers did not match expectations. His stats, while not disastrous, raised concerns: a 4.46 ERA and 1.43 WHIP over 36⅓ innings in eight starts, with 28 strikeouts. A shoulder impingement sidelined him for part of the season. Although his fastball remained strong, averaging 96.1 mph, it lacked the consistent dominance Dodgers fans were hoping to see.
More than just physical setbacks, Sasaki struggled to maintain rhythm and consistency. After losing momentum and facing injury, he had to reconstruct his approach to pitching. Over time, his role shifted, leading the Dodgers to reconsider how to best utilize his talents.
Reinvention During Postseason Brings Hope
The turning point came in the 2025 postseason when Sasaki was moved to the bullpen. In this simplified role, he excelled, delivering a remarkable 0.84 ERA in 10.2 innings across nine appearances. He recorded three saves and two holds, often pitching in high-pressure situations, showing flashes of dominance that had excited the baseball world long before his rookie struggles.
Smith’s observation that Sasaki now carries a stronger presence and confidence on the mound reflects a growing trust within the Dodgers organization. The plan appears to be to refine Sasaki’s arsenal and mentality until his postseason performance becomes the norm rather than the exception.
Potential Impact of New Pitching Techniques on Sasaki’s Future
The new cutter/slider hybrid pitch Sasaki is developing could be pivotal. If it successfully complements his fastball and splitter, it might elevate him from a promising prospect to a formidable force feared by hitters across the league. This adjustment could bridge the gap between inconsistency and sustained dominance.
With Will Smith’s endorsement and ongoing adjustments, Sasaki’s trajectory this season will be closely watched, as the Dodgers aim to harness his true ceiling while avoiding previous pitfalls.
Will Smith talks to @kirsten_watson on day 3 of full squad workouts at Camelback Ranch. #DodgersST⚾️🌵 pic.twitter.com/REtqyQjvN4
— SportsNet LA (@SportsNetLA) February 19, 2026
