Roki Sasaki Demonstrates Progress in Recovery, Prepares for Return

• Roki Sasaki is recovering after shoulder surgery.
• The team's manager noted the progress in the physical rehabilitation of the pitcher.
• The next step for Sasaki is still unknown.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Roki Sasaki, a rookie for the Los Angeles Dodgers, threw three innings of simulated game on Friday and is on the path to returning after an injury-plagued season.

The Japanese talent is on the list of injured players since mid-April due to an impingement in his right shoulder.

Sasaki executed 46 pitches, his velocity reached 97 miles per hour, competing against infielder Alex Colas and several players from the minor leagues.

“He has achieved what is needed,” said manager Dave Roberts.

Roberts noted that Sasaki added some weight while working with the team's physical training staff.

“He has become more physically developed,” said Roberts. “The pitch was three times cleaner.”

The manager is not certain whether the next step for Sasaki will be a rehabilitation assignment or another simulated game.

“He is still looking for, asking trainers about pitches, and that’s normal,” added the manager. “We’re waiting for when he feels comfortable and fully confident in his pitching.”

Sasaki came to the major leagues as one of the best pitchers in recent years but faced difficulties in his first eight starts before the injury.

Tags: Sport/Baseball