Dodgers' Roki Sasaki Halts Cubs' 10-Game Winning Streak with Sixth-Inning Performance LOS ANGELES – In a pivotal matchup at Dodger Stadium, the Los Angeles Dodgers secured a 12-4 victory over the Chicago Cubs, ending the Cubs’ 10-game winning streak. The game featured a standout performance from Japanese star Roki Sasaki, who pitched into the sixth inning for the first time this season. Despite allowing four runs—three of which came via home runs—Sasaki earned his first win of the year by limiting Chicago’s offensive output and slowing down the Cubs’ momentum. Sasaki, the Dodgers’ starting pitcher, faced seven hits and walked one batter while striking out five. His ability to navigate the sixth inning marked a significant step forward in his adaptation to Major League Baseball. The game’s outcome underscored his growing role in the rotation, as the Dodgers leaned on his versatility and command to disrupt the Cubs’ offensive rhythm. The pitcher’s performance was highlighted by his increased use of splitters, a pitch he had previously relied on less frequently. During the game, Sasaki emphasized the effectiveness of his splitter, noting that he had better control of the pitch and used it strategically to build counts. When asked about the adjustment in his splitter usage, he stated, “Today, I had good control of it, and it was a good pitch to use to build the counts, so I think it was an easy to pitch to call for.” Sasaki also mentioned that he made a slight adjustment between starts to throw his splitter harder, though he declined to specify the exact change. He confirmed that the adjustment was similar to techniques he had used in Japan, where he developed his repertoire. “That’s correct,” he said. “Yes.” Despite the win, Sasaki acknowledged challenges in his development.#chicago_cubs #los_angeles_dodgers #dodger_stadium #roki_sasaki #splitter_pitch
