Dodgers to Utilize Roki Sasaki in 2027 Rotation

Pitcher Roki Sasaki aims to build on his 2026 workload as he prepares for a full season as a starter.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Baseball

Dodgers to Utilize Roki Sasaki in 2027 Rotation

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Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki intends to serve as a starter for the 2027 season. He aims to secure a permanent spot in the club's playoff rotation after steadily increasing his pitching volume over the last two years.

Why it matters

The move represents a critical development for the Dodgers as they look to optimize their pitching staff. Sasaki intends to build on his momentum from the second half of 2026 to ensure he is fully prepared for a major league starting role.

Sasaki recorded a 4.49 ERA in 2026 across 122 1/3 innings, though his performance improved significantly to a 2.83 ERA during the second half of the season. His 2026 campaign also included a 23.6% strikeout rate, a 9.2% walk rate, and a 42.2% ground ball rate.

The players

Roki Sasaki

He is a professional pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers who previously competed in Japan.

Charles Davalan

He is a talented infield prospect currently ranked as the #7 player in the Dodgers organization by Baseball America.

Los Angeles Dodgers

This is a professional Major League Baseball team based in Los Angeles that competes in the National League West division.

The details

Sasaki, who turns 25 in November 2026, was previously limited in 2025 by a shoulder impingement. Meanwhile, Dodgers prospect Charles Davalan is currently training at second base in the Arizona Fall League to gain defensive versatility and increase his chances of reaching the major league roster.

2023: Tommy Edman played over 100 games in a season.
2025: Roki Sasaki was limited by a shoulder impingement.
September 2026: Charles Davalan was promoted to Double-A.
November 2026: Roki Sasaki turns 25 years old.
2027: Kyle Tucker may opt out of his contract.

Season Trajectory

The transition of Roki Sasaki into a consistent starter role impacts the Dodgers' playoff rotation depth for 2027. This move, combined with Charles Davalan training at a new position, reflects the team's broader efforts to improve roster versatility and pitching stability.

Sasaki's projected workload increase suggests he will become a primary innings-eater for the Dodgers' starting rotation in 2027. Additionally, Charles Davalan's defensive training indicates the team is prioritizing multi-position utility for his path to the majors.

The takeaway

The Dodgers are prioritizing durable starting pitching and defensive flexibility to manage the long 2027 season. Fans should watch for how Sasaki's second-half 2026 performance translates to a full, injury-free campaign as a starter.