The Dodgers' quest for a reliable closer has been a rollercoaster ride this season. With high hopes, they signed reliever Tanner Scott to a lucrative deal, but his performance hasn't matched the expectations. Scott, who shined as a closer for the Marlins and Padres in 2024, has struggled with an ERA of 4.74 and a concerning 10 blown saves, the most in the majors.
But here's where it gets interesting... the Dodgers have found their hero in an unexpected place. Rookie Roki Sasaki, who started the season as a starter, has emerged as the team's clutch performer in the postseason. Despite a right shoulder injury and a stint on the injured list, Sasaki has delivered when it matters most.
And this is the part most people miss... Sasaki's impact goes beyond the numbers. He closed out the Wild Card series against the Reds with an impressive 11-pitch performance, retiring three batters in the ninth. In the Dodgers' wins against the Phillies, Sasaki has been the man with the final pitch, even when it wasn't part of the initial strategy.
Manager Dave Roberts, while cautious, seems to be warming up to the idea of Sasaki as the team's closer. "He's definitely the primary option now," Roberts stated during a press conference. "There's a buildup, and we need to win more games. He won't close every game, but if it makes sense, he'll be finishing them."
Sasaki himself is ready for the challenge. Despite never pitching on back-to-back days in his young career, he feels confident. "I feel good about throwing consecutive games. I had a good session on my off day, and I'm ready," Sasaki shared after the Dodgers' Game 2 victory.
So, will Sasaki be the Dodgers' new closer? Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure: this team has found a gem in Sasaki, and his impact could be a game-changer in the postseason. What do you think? Should Sasaki be the Dodgers' go-to closer? Let us know in the comments!
