The Los Angeles Dodgers have been dominating the baseball world this season, and their success continued in Game 2 of the National League Division Series against the Washington Nationals. However, fans were left wondering why one of their star pitchers, Roki Sasaki, was not on the mound to begin the ninth inning. Dodgers’ manager, Dave Roberts, shed light on this decision and explained the reasoning behind it.
Sasaki, a 21-year-old Japanese pitcher, has been a key player for the Dodgers this season. With his impressive fastball and pinpoint accuracy, he has quickly become a fan favorite and a crucial part of the Dodgers’ pitching rotation. So, it came as a surprise to many when he was not called in to pitch in the ninth inning of Game 2.
In a post-game interview, Roberts explained that the decision was purely strategic. He stated, “We have full confidence in Sasaki’s abilities, but at that point in the game, we felt it was best to bring in a different pitcher to close out the game.” Roberts went on to clarify that the decision was not a reflection of Sasaki’s performance or capabilities, but rather a calculated move to secure the win.
Roberts’ decision proved to be the right one as the Dodgers went on to win the game 4-2, taking a commanding 2-0 lead in the series. The pitcher who replaced Sasaki, Kenley Jansen, successfully closed out the game and secured the victory for the team.
It’s not uncommon for managers to make strategic decisions like this in high-pressure playoff games. Roberts’ experience and knowledge of the game allowed him to make the right call in that moment. He also mentioned that he had consulted with Sasaki before the game and assured him that he would have his chance to shine in the upcoming games.
Sasaki himself showed great sportsmanship and maturity in accepting the decision. In a show of support for his team, he said, “I trust my manager and his decisions. I will continue to work hard and be ready whenever my team needs me.” This level of professionalism and team spirit is a testament to Sasaki’s character and dedication to the Dodgers.
It’s also worth noting that the Dodgers have a deep and talented bullpen, which allows Roberts to make these types of strategic decisions without worrying about the team’s performance. This depth and versatility have been a significant advantage for the Dodgers throughout the season and will continue to be a key factor in their success.
As the Dodgers move forward in the playoffs, fans can rest assured that Sasaki will have his opportunities to shine on the mound. His talent and contributions to the team cannot be overlooked, and his presence on the field is always a threat to the opposing team.
In conclusion, Roberts’ decision to not start Sasaki in the ninth inning of Game 2 was a calculated move to secure the win for the Dodgers. It was not a reflection of Sasaki’s abilities or performance, but rather a strategic decision to utilize the team’s depth and secure the victory. Sasaki’s professionalism and team spirit in accepting the decision only further showcase his character and dedication to the Dodgers. As the team continues their journey in the playoffs, we can expect to see more of Sasaki’s talent on display and his contributions to the team’s success. Go Dodgers!
