The Los Angeles Dodgers signed Yoshinobu Yamamoto after a decorated career in Japan, rewarding him with the richest contract for a pitcher in Major League Baseball history.
The 25-year-old went 17-6 with a 1.21 ERA, 0.86 WHIP and 176 strikeouts in 24 games for the Orix Buffaloes last year. Yamamoto won three consecutive Eiji Sawamura Awards — Nippon Professional Baseball’s version of the Cy Young — and three MVPs in a row as well.
His small frame at 5’10 and 175 pounds raised some questions of durability, however, Yamamoto’s unique training regimen and throwing mechanics instilled a lot of confidence among Dodgers officials.
Yamamoto’s past success and ability to throw an electric fastball despite his stature has Blake Treinen particularly intrigued, per Dylan Hernández of the L.A. Times:
“I’m excited to see somebody [with] Yamamoto’s frame throw 100,” reliever Blake Treinen said. “It’s crazy to me.”
The absence of a leg kick is prominent in Yamamoto’s delivery, and how he generates as much arm action on his pitches is an anomaly. His calm demeanor has also been picked up by members of the Dodgers roster, including veteran players.
Freddie Freeman commented on Yamamoto after a live batting practice session early into Spring Training, having nothing but positive feedback.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto making Dodger Stadium debut
After making his MLB debut in the Seoul Series, Yamamoto was pushed back in the Dodgers’ rotation to Saturday. Manager Dave Roberts explained that decision stemmed from scheduling factors and not the right-hander struggling against the San Diego Padres.
Yamamoto now gets an opportunity to right the ship with his Dodger Stadium debut coming after spending the past week in Southern California to overcome potential jet lag and other challenges with adjusting from being in South Korea.
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