Dodgers’ “Reiwa Monster†Riki Sasaki draws Praise from Cy Young Winner David Price
A promising debut season for Dodgers pitcher Riki Sasaki has caught the attention of veteran left-hander David Price, who recently shared insights into the young player’s potential, drawing parallels too his own early career experiences.Price, a 157-game winner and former Cy Young Award recipient, lauded Sasaki’s resilience and impact during a recent appearance on “MLB Network.â€
Sasaki,nicknamed the “Reiwa Monster,†experienced a season of notable transition. Initially posting a 4.46 ERA with a 1-1 record across 10 games, the young pitcher was shifted to a relief role late in the season. This move proved pivotal, as Sasaki unexpectedly emerged as a crucial component of the Dodgers’ bullpen during the playoffs.
“To be able to pitch in the playoffs, I think I would do anything to stay in the major leagues,†Price reflected on his own early career. “It’s really importent to experience the playoffs at a young age. To be a part of the dugout,to be in the field with everyone,to get a few key outs. Sasaki did that.â€
Sasaki delivered in high-pressure situations, recording two holds and three saves in nine playoff games with a remarkable 0.84 ERA. His performance was instrumental in the Dodgers’ pursuit of a historic championship, contributing to their achievement of consecutive World Series titles – a first in franchise history. He is slated to return to a starting role next season.
Did you know?-The Dodgers became the first MLB team to win back-to-back World Series championships as the New York Yankees from 1998-2000. Sasaki played a key role in the 2023 and 2024 victories.
Price emphasized the confidence boost Sasaki will likely gain from his playoff success.“I think it’s going to be a huge source of confidence for Sasaki,†Price stated. “Because I know he was frustrated at the beginning of the season and he wasn’t getting the results he expected. However, he bounced back, found something in the minor leagues and came back healthy. And then got some of the biggest and most critical outs for the Dodgers in the playoffs, and that meant a lot to him.â€
Price’s own major league journey began with a similar trajectory.In his first season with the rays, he posted a 1.59 ERA with one win, zero losses, and one save in five playoff relief appearances, helping the team reach the World Series. He would later transition back to a starting role, ultimately amassing 157 wins and 82 losses across 400 career games with a 3.32 ERA. He secured the prestigious Cy Young Award in 2012 and concluded his career with two seasons playing for the dodgers.
Pro tip:-Pitchers frequently enough experience fluctuations in performance during their rookie seasons. Adjusting to the demands of a major league schedule and facing elite competition requires time and adaptation.
The veteran pitcher’s observations highlight the importance of early playoff experience in shaping a young player’s career, suggesting that Riki Sasaki is well-positioned for continued success.
Reader question:-How important is a player’s mental fortitude when facing adversity early in their career? What role do coaches play in building that resilience?
Keep reading
- Historic Albany Foundation Nears Completion of Landmark Rehab (news-usa.today)
