Roki Sasaki Mostly Cruises Through Fifth Rehab Start
Exactly four months after his last start for the Dodgers, Sasaki returned to the mound for his fifth rehab outing and offered encouraging signs as he works his way back from a right shoulder impingement. Baseball America’s No. 1 prospect to begin the year struck out eight over 4.2 innings for Triple-A Oklahoma City. He was in control until the fifth inning, ultimately allowing three runs while issuing four walks. Perhaps more importantly, Sasaki’s fastball velocity was up. He averaged 98.3 mph on his fastball and reached 100 mph six times. With his return to full health nearing, the Japanese pitching sensation appears close to rejoining the Dodgers. However, given the current logjam in the rotation, his most likely path back to the big league roster may come in a bullpen role.
