# Sasaki returns to bullpen as Dodgers eye postseason

> The Japanese right-hander is back from injury and ready to reprise his closer role that helped win last year's championship.
- Title: Sasaki returns to bullpen as Dodgers eye postseason · Mlb
- Summary: The Japanese right-hander is back from injury and ready to reprise his closer role that helped win last year's championship. Sasaki's proven ability to excel…
- Keywords: roki sasaki, los angeles dodgers, bullpen, postseason, relief pitcher, closer, injured list, blister injury, edwin díaz, tanner scott, dave roberts, mlb
- Source: Mlb — https://mlb.com/news/roki-sasaki-activated-off-injured-list-to-join-dodgers-bullpen
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: roki sasaki, los angeles dodgers, bullpen, postseason, relief pitcher, closer, injured list, blister injury, edwin díaz, tanner scott, dave roberts, mlb
## Sasaki activated for postseason push
The Dodgers brought Roki Sasaki back from the injured list ahead of Tuesday's game against the Padres. He missed time with a blister on his right middle finger that ended his last start on August 26.
## Strong return in relief debut
In his first game back, Sasaki struck out two in a scoreless fourth inning against San Diego, throwing fastballs averaging 98.7 mph. He generated four whiffs, including two on his splitter.

> I was able to settle in because I had the experience last year.
## Last year's closer success fueled this season
Sasaki became the Dodgers' postseason closer last year after moving to relief, posting a 0.84 ERA in 10 and two-thirds innings. That success gave him confidence that led to his breakout as a starter this season.
## Starter turned closer again
Sasaki had been growing into his role as a starter this season, posting a 2.63 ERA through seven starts before the blister injury. Now he's back in the bullpen for the postseason stretch.
## Dodgers lack a set closer
Edwin Díaz has struggled this season and is pitching in low-leverage situations to earn a postseason role. Tanner Scott leads the team with 23 saves but has blown four, including two since September started.
## Sasaki could fill the gap
Manager Dave Roberts said Sasaki could be an option in save situations if he shows enough in the final week. Roberts prefers playing matchups in the postseason rather than relying on one closer.

> You just don't know where the ninth inning is going to be.
## Sasaki ready for whatever comes
The 24-year-old right-hander said he'll give his best in any role the Dodgers ask of him. His experience winning last year's championship in relief has prepared him for high-pressure situations.

> I'm just going to give my best, whatever opportunity I'm given.
## Key takeaway

Sasaki's proven ability to excel in high-leverage relief situations makes him a valuable option for the Dodgers' postseason bullpen despite recent time as a starter.