Dodgers Rookie Sasaki Faces Calls for Minor League Assignment After Rough Starts

LOS ANGELES, California – The Los Angeles Dodgers are facing increasing pressure to send rookie pitcher Bobby Sasaki to the minor leagues after his tumultuous start to the Major League Baseball season.

Sasaki, who was regarded as the top international free agent before signing with the Dodgers, struggled in his first two starts in the majors. In his latest outing, he lasted only 1.2 innings, giving up two runs while walking four batters against the Philadelphia Phillies.

Analysts are starting to voice concerns over his readiness for the major leagues. Michael Shusterman, a baseball analyst, suggested that a demotion to the minors may be beneficial for Sasaki. “I don’t know if just continuing to roll that out in the big leagues is actively helping,” Shusterman said in a recent interview. “There is a version where five starts in Oklahoma City, in front of fewer people, against worse hitters will allow him to work on things and come back more prepared to succeed.”

Shusterman emphasized that Sasaki currently does not appear to be set up for success in the major leagues. “That is the simplest way to put it,” he added. The analyst believes a brief period away from the spotlight could aid Sasaki’s adjustment to the game in America.

Despite these recommendations, there has been no indication from the Dodgers’ management that they will demote Sasaki. The team plans to continue evaluating his performance in hopes that he can rectify his struggles on the mound.

The Dodgers are known for their strong farm system; many fans and analysts alike are left wondering if a short-term move might ultimately benefit both the player and the team.