Summary
The Los Angeles Dodgers faced a challenge with pitcher Rōki Sasaki's declining performance during the National League Championship Series against the Milwaukee Brewers. Sasaki's fastball speed has been decreasing throughout the postseason, a potential issue since his return from a shoulder injury. Despite previous strong performances, his velocity decline and control issues almost cost the Dodgers a critical game.
Key Facts
- The Dodgers won against the Brewers in Game 1 of the National League Championship Series with an initial lead.
- Blake Snell pitched eight scoreless innings for the Dodgers during the game.
- Rōki Sasaki, who came in as a relief pitcher, gave up a walk, a double, and a sacrifice fly which nearly allowed the Brewers to win.
- Sasaki was signed from Japan and known for his high-speed pitches, but his regular-season performance had setbacks due to a shoulder injury.
- After recovering, Sasaki returned as a reliever with improved velocity that reached triple digits.
- In the postseason, Sasaki's fastball velocity has been trending down, with a drop from 100.6 mph to 98.0 mph over several games.
- Sasaki's decreased velocity and inconsistent command are potential concerns for the Dodgers in the postseason.
