Summary
Roki Sasaki, a baseball pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers, was prevented from playing with the Samurai Japan team in the World Baseball Classic due to team commitments. Sasaki stayed in Arizona to participate in spring training, following an injury-interrupted season. His first spring training start was challenging, but he is preparing to be a regular pitcher for the Dodgers.
Key Facts
- Roki Sasaki wanted to join Samurai Japan for the World Baseball Classic.
- Sasaki helped Japan win against Team USA in the 2023 final.
- The Los Angeles Dodgers blocked him from joining Samurai Japan, keeping him for spring training.
- Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto joined the Samurai Japan team.
- Sasaki made his first spring training start against the Arizona Diamondbacks.
- In his first outing, Sasaki's fastball speed was good, but he struggled with control.
- Sasaki gave up three runs in the first inning but then managed two strikeouts.
- He is aiming to secure a spot in the Dodgers' starting rotation amidst competition.
