Just a month ago, the Dodgers had no idea what to do with Roki Sasaki. He was still down in Triple-A, technically rehabbing a shoulder issue but also revamping his mechanics. An issue with his calf conveniently let them keep him in Oklahoma City past the initial Sept. 12 decision date to either keep him there or bring him back to the majors.
They eventually did bring him back on Sept. 24 despite posting a 6.10 ERA in the minors across five starts and two relief appearances. He pitched two relief outings at the very end of the season, but skepticism was still high.