Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s Challenging MLB Debut at Dodgers

Over the years, Los Angeles Dodgers fans have been treated to some of the best starting pitching in modern Major League Baseball history. This rich legacy includes iconic pitchers like Don Newcombe, Sandy Koufax, and Clayton Kershaw, whose contributions have solidified the team’s reputation.

Among the newest additions to this illustrious group is right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto. The Dodgers invested significantly in Yamamoto, signing him to a hefty 12-year, $325 million contract in December 2023. Prior to joining the Dodgers, Yamamoto had been showcasing his skills with the Orix Buffaloes in Japan’s Pacific League.

Yamamoto’s journey with the Dodgers began with high hopes, yet his first season presented challenges. After his debut against the San Diego Padres on March 21, 2024, Yamamoto’s performance varied, hindered by an injury. He was placed on the injured list in June due to right triceps soreness but returned in September to complete the season with solid, if not spectacular, stats.

His pitching arsenal includes a diverse range of five pitches, notably his deceptive split-finger pitch, which often causes difficulty for batters. Despite these skills, his postseason debut in Game 1 of the National League Division Series (NLDS) against the San Diego Padres was less than stellar. He pitched only three innings, allowing five hits and five earned runs, including a two-run home run by Manny Machado.

Despite the shaky performance, the Dodgers managed a comeback, led by Shohei Ohtani‘s explosive first-inning homer. Dodgers’ manager Dave Roberts acknowledged the stress of the game and suggested pitch-tipping as a possible issue for Yamamoto. “They were seeing him well… so we’re going to clean that up,” Roberts commented, indicating confidence that Yamamoto would learn from the experience.

The Dodgers remain optimistic about Yamamoto’s future contributions, with the potential for him to start again if the series extends to Game 5. The anticipation surrounds whether Yamamoto can rise to the occasion and join the ranks of other legendary Dodgers starters.