Brandon Gomes on Sasaki: Why MLB Adaptation is Underestimated for Japanese Players

Daniel Kim 2026.05.21 Views

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[MyDaily = Kim Jin-sung] “I think people underestimate how hard it is for players coming from Japan.”

Brandon Gomes, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ president of baseball operations, spoke with international outlets via The Athletic on the 19th (Korea time) about several team matters. He brightened when the conversation turned to Roki Sasaki, 25. Sasaki has struggled overall this season, posting a 2–3 record and a 5.09 ERA in eight appearances.

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Still, Sasaki has shown signs of adjustment. In three May starts he is 1–1 with a 3.50 ERA. He regularly reaches the high-150 km/h range — roughly the upper-90s in mph — and throws one of the best splitters in the game. But two pitches alone aren’t enough for a full-time starter. The Dodgers have been working with him on a slider, which hasn’t fully come together yet, and his overall command remains inconsistent.

Despite being on a minor-league deal, the Dodgers have kept Sasaki in the majors and given him regular starts. His strong May outings look like the payoff of that investment. On May 18 against the Los Angeles Angels, he turned in the best outing of his young MLB career: seven innings, four hits, eight strikeouts and one run.

The Athletic noted, “The Dodgers remain encouraged by Sasaki’s development. Gomes praised Sasaki’s improved communication and his openness to feedback, saying those traits have contributed to continued improvement on the mound. On Sunday against the Angels, Sasaki struck out eight over seven innings, marking a career high.”

Gomes said, “He did a terrific job. Our coaches have done a great job. Sasaki has had a lot of conversations with the coaches and has really worked hard. I think people underestimate how hard it is for players when they come from Japan. There’s a lot they have to adapt to.”

Gomes added, “It adds depth. It’s not just about whether he can pitch here — we saw that last October. The communication and trust have really started to flourish, and that’s a good combination.”

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With Blake Snell (elbow) and Tyler Glasnow (back) sidelined, Sasaki’s role has grown in importance. Gomes said, “With each outing, Sasaki is gaining experience and sharpening his skills. You can see it in nearly every start. That’s encouraging — this could be the moment he really breaks out.”