Dodgers' Roki Sasaki Out, Rotation Faces More Strain

Los Angeles Dodgers rookie pitcher Roki Sasaki has been placed on the 15-day injured list with a right shoulder impingement after experiencing arm soreness following a start against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Sasaki, who joined the Dodgers this year after an impressive but injury-prone career in Japan, has posted a 1-1 record with a 4.72 ERA and has struggled with declining fastball velocity and command issues. His absence further strains a Dodgers rotation already missing key starters Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow, although Clayton Kershaw is expected to return soon. Manager Dave Roberts said Sasaki had tried to pitch through discomfort due to the team's depleted rotation but emphasized prioritizing the rookie's long-term health and development. The Dodgers hope the injured list stint will help Sasaki recover and adjust to Major League demands, as happened with fellow Japanese pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Sasaki's injury highlights mounting challenges for the Dodgers amid ongoing pitching setbacks.