Roki Sasaki’s second spring training outing was notably poor as he failed to retire a single batter in the first inning, issuing three walks, allowing a single, and surrendering a grand slam before being pulled. Although he settled down to retire six straight batters in the following innings, that initial collapse cast doubt among Dodgers fans about his readiness. Despite the shaky performance, the Dodgers currently intend for Sasaki to begin the regular season in the starting rotation, where he could ease into his role behind pitchers like Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Shohei Ohtani, Tyler Glasnow, and Emmet Sheehan. His workload may even be managed with extended rest between starts.
Meanwhile, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts also noted positive signs from another pitcher vying for a rotation spot, River Ryan, who delivered two strong innings immediately following Sasaki’s struggles. With Gavin Stone expected to miss time at the start of the season, Ryan has emerged as the leading candidate to fill a potential sixth starter role or possibly replace Sasaki in the traditional five-man rotation.
River Ryan Gains Momentum as a Rotation Option Amid Competition and Injuries
Ryan’s performance Tuesday was largely impressive, marred only by a leadoff walk. Over two innings, he struck out three hitters, including a future Hall of Famer, Jose Ramírez, whom he struck out with a sharp back-foot slider. This pitch has drawn significant attention:
“River Ryan, Vicious 91mph Slider. 😤 pic.twitter.com/dwZgmCaoqi”
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja)
Widely regarded as one of the best pitching prospects outside the top 100, Ryan has been praised by analysts such as Keith Law of The Athletic, who suggested that Ryan could become the top pitching prospect overall if he remains healthy. Comparisons have been made to Gerrit Cole, and Dodgers executive Andrew Friedman singled out both Ryan and Gavin Stone as highly anticipated injury returns. Ryan’s steady progress places him in an advantageous position to challenge for a bullpen role or starting spot, particularly if Sasaki’s struggles continue.
A Tight Rotation Battle Looms as Spring Progresses
Spring training is about halfway complete, offering time for both Sasaki to improve and Ryan to demonstrate consistency or face setbacks. Though the Dodgers remain committed to Sasaki, many fans remain skeptical about his current readiness level. Should Ryan maintain his strong form, he could force a significant shift in the Dodgers’ pitching plans heading into Opening Day. With much of the 2026 roster already settled, a rotation shakeup would introduce a notable change in a season otherwise defined by stability.
River Ryan, Vicious 91mph Slider. 😤 pic.twitter.com/dwZgmCaoqi
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) March 3, 2026
