Dodgers Activate Roki Sasaki From 60-Day IL Ahead October

The Los Angeles Dodgers are preparing for the postseason with key pitching adjustments, including the return of right-hander Roki Sasaki from the injured list, who will now pitch out of the bullpen to potentially strengthen their playoff roster. Sasaki's initial MLB season was rocky, with control issues and a high ERA, but his recent relief appearances in Triple-A have shown promise, particularly with an improved fastball velocity and effective splitter. The Dodgers also re-signed veteran pitcher Matt Sauer to a minor league deal as they seek bullpen depth, although Sauer is unlikely to pitch in the postseason. Despite some roster uncertainty and injury challenges, the Dodgers secured a postseason spot for the 13th consecutive year and are strategizing their pitching rotation and bullpen roles for the playoffs, with key decisions pending on starters like Shohei Ohtani and Clayton Kershaw. Off the field, the Dodgers face offseason decisions regarding player trades, notably the potential departure of catcher Dalton Rushing, who has struggled offensively and may be traded to maximize his value while Ben Rortvedt emerges as a likely backup catcher option. Overall, the Dodgers are balancing their high expectations with pragmatic roster moves as they aim to defend their title and make a deep postseason run.