The Los Angeles Dodgers, the defending World Series champions, are facing a challenging spring training as they gear up for their season opener against the Arizona Diamondbacks on March 24, 2026. The team has recently experienced notable struggles on the mound, particularly with pitcher Roki Sasaki, who issued six walks and gave up five runs in just over two innings during a recent exhibition game against the Los Angeles Angels.
Sasaki’s performance has raised eyebrows, as he currently holds a staggering 15.58 ERA over four exhibition starts. This alarming statistic follows a season in which he went 1-1 with a 4.46 ERA in eight starts and two relief appearances. The Dodgers had high hopes for Sasaki after signing him to a minor league deal in January 2025, which included a $6.5 million signing bonus due to international signing bonus pool rules.
In contrast, fellow pitcher Shohei Ohtani showcased a more encouraging performance in his spring training start, pitching 4.1 innings, allowing just one hit, and striking out four batters. This stark difference in performance highlights the pitching uncertainties the Dodgers must address as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Despite these pitching woes, the Dodgers have shown offensive prowess, scoring 20 runs in the Freeway series before the start of the 2026 season. This offensive output is a positive sign for the team, especially as they look to achieve a three-peat after winning back-to-back World Series championships.
The Dodgers’ first game of the season is scheduled for Thursday at 5:30 p.m., and fans will be eager to see how the team performs under pressure. Mookie Betts, one of the team’s stars, will enter the season with a new walk-up song, “Put It On Da Floor Again” by Latto and Cardi B, which may energize the crowd and the players alike.
As the Dodgers prepare for their opener, the focus will be on whether Sasaki can turn his performance around and contribute effectively to the team’s pitching rotation. The upcoming game will serve as a critical test for both the pitching staff and the overall team dynamics.
Initial reactions from fans and analysts suggest a mix of concern and cautious optimism. While the offensive capabilities appear strong, the pitching struggles could pose significant challenges as the season progresses. The Dodgers will need to find a way to balance their offensive strengths with a more reliable pitching performance to maintain their championship aspirations.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential changes to the pitching rotation or lineup as the team finalizes preparations for the season opener. The Dodgers’ management will be closely monitoring Sasaki’s performance and the overall health of the pitching staff in the days leading up to the game.
