Sasaki Roki Struggles in Spring Training, Manager Roberts: "He Has No Feel for Any Pitch"

The Los Angeles Dodgers fielded Japanese pitcher Sasaki Roki against the Los Angeles Angels in a spring training exhibition game, but his control was severely problematic, issuing 8 walks and allowing 5 runs. After the game, manager Dave Roberts commented bluntly on his performance: "He has no feel for any pitch."

In this game, Sasaki failed to secure any outs in the first inning, issuing 4 walks including two with bases loaded, and was subsequently replaced. Although, under special spring training rules, Sasaki returned to pitch in the second inning, he still couldn't adjust his form. Over the entire game, he threw 66 pitches, accumulated 8 walks, and allowed 5 runs, resulting in a spring training ERA of 15.58 across four exhibition games.

When discussing Sasaki after the game, Roberts offered a rather stern assessment: "Tonight, he couldn't get the ball into the strike zone." He further stated: "He has no feel for any pitch." However, he reiterated that the plan remains to have Sasaki start in the fourth game of the season.

During the game, Sasaki momentarily lost confidence, and Roberts directly told him in the dugout: "I believe in you, truly think so."

Despite the concerning adjustment results, Roberts reaffirmed the team's stance remains unchanged: "He will start against the Guardians in the fourth game of the new season."

Japanese media "Full-Count" specifically described the atmosphere of the interview scene. An American reporter asked: "Do you think you need to adjust in the minor leagues?" Faced with this question, Sasaki's gaze drifted upward, and he said: "If the team feels it's necessary, I think that's fine, but this isn't something I can decide alone; the team will make a decision after considering various factors."