Dodgers Pitcher Sasaki Nears Late August Return

Los Angeles Dodgers rookie pitcher Roki Sasaki, out since May with a shoulder impingement, is progressing in his recovery and could return in late August. Manager Dave Roberts reports that Sasaki is pain-free, actively throwing bullpen sessions, and will require about six weeks or more to rehab as the team remains cautious with his development. Despite a challenging rookie season marked by a 4.72 ERA over eight starts, Roberts is optimistic about Sasaki's future. The Dodgers’ pitching depth will soon increase with the expected returns of Blake Snell and Shohei Ohtani, allowing for a patient approach to Sasaki’s comeback. The team has recently struggled, losing seven of their last eight games, but still leads the NL West with the best record in the league. Sasaki is focused on returning healthy to potentially contribute to the Dodgers' postseason run.