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As the new baseball season approaches, anticipation grows around the Los Angeles Dodgers, particularly with their recent addition, Roki Sasaki. The question on everyone's mind is: can Sasaki become the ace pitcher the Dodgers have been looking for? With his first live batting practice session already creating a buzz, let’s dive into what we learned about this young talent and what it might mean for the Dodgers this year.
During his live batting practice at Camelback Ranch in Glendale, Arizona, Sasaki showcased his abilities, drawing a crowd of teammates, coaches, and eager fans. The excitement was palpable as everyone anticipated how Sasaki's impressive skill set would translate to Major League Baseball (MLB). The 23-year-old right-hander faced the challenge head-on, stating, "I wasn’t nervous," and showing confidence in his approach.
Sasaki pitched two innings, allowing a couple of line-drive hits while managing to keep most of his pitches on the ground. Notably, he relied heavily on his fastball and splitter, two pitches that have garnered attention for their effectiveness. His fastball, known for its velocity, was complemented by the notorious splitter that has left hitters baffled. In fact, veteran outfielder Eddie Rosario, who has faced him, admitted, "It's difficult to hit him," highlighting the unpredictability and movement of Sasaki's signature pitch.
One of the main points of interest from Sasaki's first outing was his ability to adapt under pressure. As he pitched with an audience of approximately 50 individuals watching his every move, several of his teammates noted that they had never experienced such excitement during a live BP session. This speaks volumes about the way Sasaki has already begun to command attention within the organization.
Both Tommy Edman and David Bote, who faced Sasaki during practice, commented on his pitch dynamics, emphasizing the differences in movement between his fastball and splitter. Edman noted that the fastball has "some ride and run" while the splitter offers a "lot of depth." These are critical elements that suggest a promising future for Sasaki as he continues to refine his craft.
However, one area of concern remains: Sasaki’s slider. While it is still a work in progress, the Dodgers are focused on allowing Sasaki to settle into the big leagues before making any major adjustments to his pitching arsenal. General manager Brandon Gomes expressed confidence in his command and overall pitching ability, suggesting that with further development, Sasaki has the potential to thrive as a starting pitcher in MLB.
As the Dodgers gear up for the season, all eyes will certainly be on Sasaki as he continues to grow and evolve as a pitcher. His demonstrated mental strength and ability to handle pressure could prove invaluable as the season unfolds. Dodgers fans have reason to be excited, not just about Sasaki’s pitches but about the bright future he represents for the team.
In conclusion, Roki Sasaki's debut in live batting practice is just the beginning. With the Dodgers committed to nurturing his talent, fans can expect to see real growth from this young pitcher. It’s not just about one session—it's about laying the groundwork for what could be a stellar career in Major League Baseball. Stay tuned, as we’ll continue to follow Sasaki’s journey and its impact on the Dodgers throughout the season.
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