Roki Sasaki Joins Dodgers: Analyzing His Unique Pitching Form

A motion analysis expert’s view of 192cm’s unique form

“He utilizes his height to release the ball from a significantly higher point than usual. Like a volleyball spike, he snaps his wrist to deliver sharp, angled pitches that hit the lower zone with precision. It’s a unique pitching style that showcases his natural talent—something other pitchers can’t easily imitate.”

These are the words of Takashi Kawamura, a motion analysis expert and professor at the University of Tsukuba’s School of Health and Physical Education. Kawamura is particularly impressed by Rōki Sasaki (23), who is making the move from the Chiba Lotte Marines to the Los Angeles Dodgers. Due to a connection with Sasaki’s former high school coach at Ofunato High School (Iwate Prefecture)—a former student of Kawamura—he had the opportunity to personally coach Sasaki.

“With gratitude to everyone, I look forward to wearing the Dodgers uniform.”

Sasaki posted this message on his Instagram, announcing his agreement with the Dodgers on January 18 (Japan time). Due to special MLB rules for foreign players under 25, he signed a $6.5 million (approx. ¥1.01 billion) minor league contract, aiming for early promotion to the majors. Now, let’s analyze Sasaki’s pitching mechanics with insights from Professor Kawamura, using a series of sequential photos. (The following comments are from Kawamura.)

Strengths and concerns revealed

① Here, he lifts his left leg high while maintaining stability without any body sway. This proves that he is firmly planting his right foot on the ground and supporting his weight properly.”

② highlights what makes Sasaki unique.

“He bends his right knee and lowers his center of gravity. Instead of leaning forward, he moves toward the batter with a ‘hip-first’ approach, effectively utilizing the power of his lower body. Tall pitchers usually struggle to lower their center of gravity this much. At 192 cm, Sasaki has a strong and well-controlled pelvis, which likely contributes to this ability.”

③ reveals the evolution from his high school days.

“Pay attention to his left foot’s landing. In high school, he seemed to simply place it down, but as a pro, he now steps forcefully onto the mound, allowing for smooth weight transfer toward the batter.”

④ showcases both his strengths and concerns.

“His release point is very high, and his elbow is not bent much. The advantage is that he can throw powerful fastballs with a steep downward angle and a forkball with a sharp drop, as he doesn’t bend his elbow too much. However, the extended elbow is under stress, increasing the risk of injury.”

⑤ displays a perfect finish.

“He keeps his weight on his left foot until the very end. It’s difficult for a pitcher with long limbs like Sasaki to move his body smoothly. His efficient form enables this.”

How will Sasaki perform once he makes it to the majors?

“If he can stay in the starting rotation for a full year, he will undoubtedly win 15 to 20 games. Winning the most games in a season is not out of reach. However, even in Japan, he never sustained his performance throughout an entire season. He likely has a body type that accumulates fatigue easily. Managing his condition will be crucial, given the shorter rest periods between starts and long-distance travel in the majors.”

Sasaki, set to join the Dodgers’ starting rotation alongside Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, will take on MLB’s top hitters with his towering and unique pitching form.

From “FRIDAY”, February 7, 2025 issue