Roki Sasaki’s recent pitching success was interrupted Wednesday night when he was removed from the Los Angeles Dodgers' game against the Atlanta Braves due to a blister on his right middle finger. The exit occurred in the fourth inning of the contest at Truist Park.
Sasaki had shown no apparent signs of discomfort through the first three innings, allowing one run in the first inning and then retiring seven of the next nine batters. However, in the fourth inning, he issued a leadoff walk, followed by a single, a run-scoring sacrifice fly, and a double. This sequence prompted a visit to the mound from pitching coach Mark Prior and interpreter Will Ireton. Following their discussion, head athletic trainer Thomas Albert was called to the mound, and manager Dave Roberts also joined. After a brief inspection of Sasaki's pitching hand by Albert, the 24-year-old pitcher departed the game.
Prior to Wednesday’s start, Sasaki had been performing well in the second half of the season, posting a 2.31 earned run average over six starts since the All-Star break. This resurgence appeared to align with the potential the Dodgers envisioned when he signed from Japan last year. Sasaki, who shifted to the bullpen during last year's playoffs, may now face uncertainty regarding his availability and role moving forward.
Further information regarding Sasaki's condition was not immediately available.