Back in August, Dave Roberts kept his options open when discussing his playoff roster. “We’re gonna take the 13 best pitchers [into the playoffs]. If Roki is a part of that in some capacity, then that would be great. And if he’s not, then he won’t be,” the Dodgers manager said about rookie Roki Sasaki. Now two months later, that 100-mph reliever, once a question mark for October, has now made a spot for himself.

Sasaki’s road to the postseason has been remarkable. After an injury-shortened stint as a starter, he returned to the Dodgers as a dominant reliever. In five appearances, he has been nearly untouchable, playing a crucial role in the NLDS against Philadelphia. In Game 1, he earned his first big league save, allowing just one double while striking out a batter. And in Game 2, he struck out again and contributed to giving the Dodgers a lead of 2-0 in the series. His command, velocity, and composure have been the reasons behind Roberts’ decision.

Ahead of Game 3, the skipper confirmed, “I would love to throw Roki Sasaki every day but that’s not feasible.” His words echoed confidence, which was once shaky. And why not? The 23-year-old has shown up at the most crucial times that made him “the primary option to pitch in the 9th inning,” as MLB insider Bob Nightengale posted on X.

Sasaki’s rise has strengthened the bullpen, which has been inconsistent with veterans like Tanner Scott and Blake Treinen. Blake Treinen’s lack of consistency has become a big problem. He has a 1–7 record this season with a 5.55 ERA and 1.85 WHIP in 24.1 innings across 29 games. In September itself, his ERA shot up to 11.57 and his WHIP to 2.43 over 7 innings. And Roberts is aware of the fact that in October the team needs best.

Even Treinen knows the importance of Sasaki’s outing, “What he has been doing since he came back has been a blessing for us… It’s been amazing, someone who presumably has so much confidence and dominance, because we’re seeing what Roki Sasaki really is as a pitcher.”

Sasaki’s role becomes increasingly more important as the Dodgers get ready for Game 3 against the Phillies. Roberts’ increased faith in his rookie closer could be the most important thing that happens in their postseason run, since they are just one win away from clinching this NLDS series.

And even the Monster of the Reiwa Era is happy with his new bullpen role.

From rotation uncertainty to bullpen certainty

Sasaki struggled on the mound as a starter in the first half of the season. He started eight games in the first half of 2025, going 1–1 with a 4.46 ERA. However, he had trouble with command and consistency, and later he landed on IL due to a right shoulder ailment.

The Dodgers moved Roki Sasaki to the bullpen, which changed the way the club plays late in the game. The 23-year-old right-hander’s adjustment has made him an asset in the winning formula of the postseason race so far.

Sasaki was a starter at first, but now he loves how intense the bullpen is. He remarked, “The fun part about relieving is the opportunity to contribute every day.” He said that he was ready for the chance that he wouldn’t pitch in the regular season and was grateful for the help of the team that made the transition go well.

Sasaki has pitched five times since taking over bullpen responsibilities, with a 0.00 ERA and eight strikeouts. He has closed off several postseason games for Los Angeles. Both his teammates and coaches have been impressed by how cool he is under pressure. Manager Dave Roberts is careful, but he is excited to see how the rookie keeps developing. Roberts stated, “It’s a balance.” “This is something he’s never done… and you’re expecting to go a few more weeks.”