Roki Sasaki Bewildered by His Fastball’s Rapid Decline: “I Throw So Slow That Opponents Laugh at Me!”

Japanese baseball sensation Roki Sasaki, once hailed as the future of pitching with his blazing fastballs, is now facing an unexpected and frustrating challenge. After being known for touching 102-103 mph with ease, Sasaki now admits his fastball has lost its once-intimidating velocity. In his own words, “I throw so slow that opponents laugh at me.”

The Meteoric Rise of Roki Sasaki

Roki Sasaki’s story was once one of unstoppable momentum. From his record-setting 19-strikeout perfect game to being dubbed the “Monster of the Reiwa Era,” Sasaki’s fastball was his ultimate weapon. Scouts across MLB were amazed by his raw power, smooth delivery, and the effortless way he hit triple digits on the radar gun.

His early appearances in professional leagues were electric. Fans flocked to see the young phenom, believing he would soon conquer Major League Baseball.

The Sudden Velocity Drop

But in a shocking twist, the 2025 season has brought unwelcome news. Sasaki’s once-fearsome fastball has mysteriously slowed. Reports indicate his fastball now hovers between 91-93 mph, a dramatic decline from his peak velocity.

The pitcher himself appears puzzled by the change. “I trained the same way, I worked hard in the offseason, but my fastball just isn’t there anymore. Hitters used to be scared. Now they’re smiling at me when I pitch.”

Experts Weigh In on Sasaki’s Struggles

Baseball analysts are scrambling to explain Sasaki’s sudden loss of speed. Some point to overuse at a young age, while others suggest mechanical issues are to blame.

Japanese pitching coach Takeshi Nakamura explained, “It could be a combination of small factors — timing, muscle fatigue, or even mental pressure. Sometimes a pitcher’s body subtly changes without injury, but the result is a slower ball.”

There is no official word of injury, but rumors of shoulder tightness and arm fatigue are circulating.

Roki’s Mental Battle: From Fireballer to Control Pitcher?

For a young pitcher whose identity was built around power, adapting to life with a slower fastball is a monumental challenge. Sasaki now faces the daunting task of reinventing himself — shifting from pure velocity to a more tactical, control-based approach.

In a recent interview, Sasaki reflected, “It’s tough, mentally. You grow up thinking your fastball is your strength. Now I have to learn how to outsmart hitters, not just overpower them. Maybe this is part of growing as a pitcher.”

The Support of Fans and Teammates

Despite his struggles, Sasaki remains a beloved figure. Fans have shown immense support, flooding social media with messages of encouragement.

One popular fan message read, “Speed is temporary. Greatness is forever. Roki will rise again.”

Teammates have also rallied around him, emphasizing his potential to become a more complete pitcher. Veteran catcher Kensuke Kondo said, “Roki has incredible talent. His splitter and slider are still deadly. Once he finds his rhythm, the speed will come back—or maybe he won’t even need it.”

What’s Next for Roki Sasaki?

The coming months will be critical for Sasaki’s career trajectory. Will he regain his legendary fastball, or will he transform into a new kind of pitcher — one who relies on craft and guile rather than brute force?

One thing is certain: the baseball world is watching closely.

Sasaki’s humility, work ethic, and undeniable talent suggest that his story is far from over. Whether as a fireballer or as a master of deception, Roki Sasaki is determined to keep fighting.