Sasaki Faces Pressure in Second Start at Dodger Stadium

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Roki Sasaki, the promising young right-hander for the Los Angeles Dodgers, is set to make his second start at Dodger Stadium as he seeks redemption following a rocky debut. The game is scheduled for April 12, 2025, and the team is eager for a more favorable outcome against the Chicago Cubs.

Sasaki’s journey in Major League Baseball has been anything but smooth. After experiencing the mixed emotions of his MLB debut in Japan, he faced the daunting challenge of pitching at one of the league’s most iconic venues. His recent outing at Citizens Bank Park proved particularly difficult, where he gave up several runs against a powerful Philadelphia Phillies lineup.

In his previous performance against the Phillies, Sasaki was removed after just 68 pitches, having allowed only one run. Though he didn’t secure a win, the Dodgers managed to clinch their only victory during the series, giving Sasaki a much-needed confidence boost. “It was a relief to focus on the positives after those first couple of starts,” Sasaki said through an interpreter.

This matchup proves critical as Sasaki faces a fiery Cubs offense, which has been scoring consistently, making it an uphill battle for the young pitcher. Much attention is on Cubs’ starter Ben Brown, who has significantly struggled this season, allowing 10 runs in just 11⅔ innings, while posting a troubling 2.229 WHIP and a .481 slugging percentage against.

The Dodgers’ offense will look to capitalize on Brown’s early-season difficulties, especially after their previous game where a lone home run from Tommy Edman led them to victory against the Cubs. “We’re excited for the chance to break out,” said Dodgers slugger Max Muncy. “It’s crucial for us to support Roki and get on the board early.”

Despite Sasaki’s early performance issues, the Dodgers have triumphed in all three of his starts so far. The team aims to build on this success while providing their young star with adequate run support. With a mixture of nerves and determination, Sasaki is prepared to take the mound at Dodger Stadium, looking for a performance that will quiet the critics and strengthen his position in the rotation.