Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Roki Sasaki will be placed on the injured list after a blister on his right middle finger forced his exit during Wednesday's 6-5 walk-off loss to the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park. The 24-year-old right-hander threw just 66 pitches before the skin tore completely while facing Ozzie Albies in the fourth inning. Sasaki, who has dealt with blisters previously in Japan, said he felt a tear but a layer of skin initially remained. Three batters later, the damage worsened, prompting his removal.

Manager Dave Roberts called the injury a surprise, noting Sasaki was on an encouraging run with a 2.31 ERA in six starts since the All-Star break. Roberts expects a minimum two-week absence. Eric Lauer will temporarily fill the rotation spot. With Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, Shohei Ohtani, Tarik Skubal, and Yoshinobu Yamamoto all expected back, Sasaki is unlikely to start in the playoffs and may shift to a bullpen role upon return. He can continue playing catch with a bandaged finger to maintain arm strength.