The Los Angeles Dodgers are one step closer to welcoming back their Japanese flamethrower on the mound.
Roki Sasaki, who has not pitched in an MLB game since mid-May after injuring his shoulder, will finally take a huge step forward in his rehab process by making a rehab start for the Dodgers' Triple-A affiliate, Oklahoma City Comets, on Thursday evening.
The 23-year-old right-hander is set to toe the slab for three innings, according to Dodgers manager Dave Roberts.
Sasaki and the Dodgers checked the final box before being cleared to start a rehab assignment, as last Friday, Sasaki threw a simulated three-inning game. He threw a total of 45 pitches, with his fastball reaching speeds between 96-97 mph.
The Dodgers have been cautious when it comes to building up Sasaki to pitch in MLB games, which include putting him through a variety of live bullpen sessions. Los Angeles can afford to take their time with Sasaki since they have plenty of pitchers down in their deep farm system.
Sasaki has shown glimpses of how his arsenal can compete with big league hitters, but the numbers tell a different story. Through eight career MLB starts, Sasaki has amassed an ERA of 4.72 in 34.1 innings pitched, along with a WHIP of 1.49.
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