Dodgers Suffer Walk-Off Loss Despite Sasaki’s Strong Start

ARLINGTON, Texas — The Los Angeles Dodgers were poised for a victory in their matchup against the Texas Rangers on Saturday, led by rookie pitcher Roki Sasaki. However, a dramatic ninth-inning collapse from the bullpen resulted in a 4-3 walk-off loss at Globe Life Field.

Sasaki, making a strong six-inning start, allowed only two runs, both from a home run by Kyle Higashioka in the third inning. The 23-year-old phenom displayed resilience despite a concerning drop in his fastball velocity, averaging just 94.7 mph, noticeably lower than his previous outings.

“Yeah, it happened pretty quick,” said veteran reliever Kirby Yates, who was called upon to secure the save. “You just flush it and move on. Be better next time.” Yates failed to record an out in the ninth, surrendering a leadoff double to Josh Smith before Adolis García hit a two-run homer to end the game.

The Dodgers had initially rallied to take the lead in the fourth inning, powered by a two-run homer from Freddie Freeman and a ground-rule double by Max Muncy. This comeback was crucial in positioning Sasaki for his first career win, which ultimately slipped away.

Manager Dave Roberts praised Sasaki for his ability to navigate a powerful Rangers lineup despite his dipping velocity. “To still manage to get through six innings with that lineup, I just think that it was a good way for him to use his entire sequence, his mix,” said Roberts, noting Sasaki’s strategic pitch selection including splitters and sliders.

Following the contest, the Dodgers faced further challenges with injuries to their top closers. Tanner Scott was unavailable due to recent fatigue, and Blake Treinen was placed on the injured list before the game with forearm tightness. The situation forced Yates into an unfamiliar late-game role against his former team.

The significance of Treinen’s absence could not be overstated, as he has been a reliable presence in the Dodgers’ bullpen, sporting a 3.38 ERA this season. The team is awaiting MRI results to determine the severity of his injury.

“We want to get to the bottom of it,” Roberts commented on Treinen’s situation. “Don’t know how long it’ll be, but I appreciate Blake for letting us know his discomfort.”

With the loss, the Dodgers and Rangers are now set for a decisive rubber match on Sunday, marking the conclusion of their three-game series. For Sasaki, while the loss was a setback, it also provided an opportunity for growth in a challenging league.