Tadahito Iguchi, who was Sasaki’s manager for the pitcher’s first three seasons in the Japan Pacific League from 2021-23, believes he will continue to improve.

Dodgers starter Tony Gonsolin will open the season on the IL, and Dustin May will be the Dodgers’ 5th starter. Gonsolin underwent Tommy John surgery late in 2023 and attempted to return last season - making three rehab starts - but did not make it to the Majors.

This offseason has resulted in starting pitching help, relieving assistance, and multiple options for a clear-cut closer (although no closer has been named) to help the efforts on the mound. More news: Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani Gets Major Praise From Future Hall of Fame Outfielder With so much talent from offseason acquisitions as well as the health of key arms making their return ahead of Opening Day,