Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expresses confidence in Roki Sasaki’s talent ahead of 2025 season opener

Something exciting is happening in baseball. The Los Angeles Dodgers have made an important decision about a young pitcher, Roki Sasaki. He is getting a big opportunity that has fans and experts paying attention. His talent and hard work have brought him to this moment. The team believes in his potential, and many expect him to succeed. His journey from Japan to Major League Baseball is now reaching a new level.

The Los Angeles Dodgers have announced that Roki Sasaki will be their starting pitcher for Game 2 of the season opener against the Chicago Cubs. The game will take place on March 19, 2025, at the Tokyo Dome in Japan. This is a special moment because Sasaki will make his Major League Baseball (MLB) debut in his home country. Japanese fans who have followed his career for years will see him play on the biggest stage.
Before joining the Dodgers, Roki Sasaki played for the Chiba Lotte Marines in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). He was one of the best pitchers in Japan, with a record of 29 wins and 15 losses, a 2.10 ERA, and 505 strikeouts in 394.2 innings. His success in Japan made him a top prospect, and now he’s ready to prove himself in MLB.

Many baseball experts believe Roki Sasaki will be a star in 2025. Douglas McKain, an analyst for Dodgers Nation, made a bold prediction.
He said, “He’s not only going to win Rookie of the Year, but I predict he’ll finish top five in Cy Young voting.”

Sasaki’s recent performances in spring training show why people have high expectations. In a game against the Cleveland Guardians, he pitched four innings, threw 41 pitches, allowed only one hit and two walks, and got two strikeouts. He has not allowed a run in seven innings so far, which is a great sign for the Dodgers.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts is also impressed with Sasaki. He said, “He earned the spot. I’m very proud of him. For a young player to pitch for the Dodgers, obviously, he’s talented and we’re excited to have him.”
Roki Sasaki knows this is a big moment in his career. He said, “To be able to pitch in Japan is a really special and unique opportunity. Playing in the major leagues is something I’ve worked for a long time to do. I’m really excited.”
Everyone is eager to see if Sasaki can live up to the hype. Will he become one of the best pitchers in the National League? Only time will tell, but his journey is just beginning.
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