The Angels couldn't score a single run against Roki Sasaki at Dodger Stadium on June 5, 2026. The game ended 1-0, but Sasaki's 10 strikeouts made sure that one run was all the Dodgers needed.
Sasaki's 10 strikeouts stand out when you consider that the average starting pitcher on June 5 struck out just 6 batters. His performance was exceptional, ranking in the top 1% of all starting pitchers that day. To put it in perspective, a strikeout performance like this happens across all 30 teams about once every two weeks. Sasaki came into the game with 60 strikeouts over 58 innings in 11 starts, which was already impressive. But getting 10 strikeouts in just seven innings was even more remarkable.
The Statcast data shows why Sasaki's performance was so dominant. Exit velocity measures how hard a batter hits the ball, and Sasaki's opponents have a .272 xwOBA this season. This means that when batters do make contact, it's usually weak and not likely to result in a hit. Even more impressive, Sasaki hasn't allowed a single barrel in 58 innings. A barrel is a well-hit ball that's likely to become a hit or extra-base hit. By eliminating barrels and getting 10 swinging strikes, Sasaki effectively protected the Dodgers' one-run lead.
The Statcast data shows why Sasaki's performance was so dominant. Exit velocity measures how hard a batter hits the ball, and Sasaki's opponents have a .272 xwOBA this season. This means that when batters do make contact, it's usually weak and not likely to result in a hit. Even more impressive, Sasaki hasn't allowed a single barrel in 58 innings. A barrel is a well-hit ball that's likely to become a hit or extra-base hit. By eliminating barrels and getting 10 swinging strikes, Sasaki effectively protected the Dodgers' one-run lead.
In his second MLB season, Sasaki is showing signs of greatness. While his 4.03 ERA in 11 starts might not scream 'ace,' his .272 xwOBA and zero barrel rate suggest he's doing a great job of limiting hard contact. ERA can be misleading early in the season, often reflecting factors like sequencing and defense more than a pitcher's true ability. Sasaki's performance against the Angels, a strong lineup, shows his potential. Holding them scoreless while the Dodgers scored just one run was impressive, whether you look at the box score or the Statcast data.
Keep an eye on Sasaki's barrel rate in his next start. Zero barrels in 58 innings is extraordinary, but it will be interesting to see if he can maintain that. If his next opponents try to capitalize on his velocity and manage to get a barrel, it could change the narrative. However, if Sasaki reaches 65 or 70 innings without allowing a barrel, it would become a defining feature of his pitching. Even one barrel in the next two starts wouldn't be surprising, but if he allows none, that would be the real story.
Seven innings. One run to protect. Ten strikeouts. Sasaki delivered exactly what the Dodgers needed on June 5 — and the stats suggest there's more brilliance to come.