SURPRISE, Ariz. (AP) — Yoshinobu Yamamoto made an impressive exhibition debut on Wednesday, catching the attention of fellow Japanese star Shohei Ohtani, who showed his support by attending the game. Despite not playing, Ohtani drove to the game in a convertible to witness Yamamoto's performance.
Yamamoto, a 25-year-old right-hander, showcased his skills by striking out three batters over two scoreless innings against the Texas Rangers. His performance left a strong impression on the Los Angeles Dodgers, who see him as a potential ace in the making.
Yamamoto started strong by striking out All-Star Marcus Semien and ended his outing by striking out Leody Taveras. He displayed impeccable command, throwing 16 of 19 pitches for strikes and showcasing a diverse pitch mix that kept the Rangers' batters off balance.
Despite his stellar performance, Yamamoto humbly stated that he was just focused on doing his job and staying calm throughout the game. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts praised Yamamoto's efficiency and pitch selection, highlighting his ability to generate swing and miss.
Yamamoto's debut comes as part of the Dodgers' significant investment in Japanese talent, with Shohei Ohtani signing a record-breaking contract earlier in the offseason. Ohtani, a two-time AL MVP, has quickly formed a close relationship with Yamamoto, offering support and camaraderie as the young pitcher transitions to the MLB.
Yamamoto, known for his dominant performances in Japan, brings a wealth of experience and a diverse pitching repertoire to the Dodgers. With a career 1.72 ERA in Japan and a standout 2023 season with the Orix Buffaloes, Yamamoto is poised to make a significant impact in the U.S.
The Dodgers view Yamamoto as a key piece of their pitching staff, especially with Ohtani recovering from an elbow injury. While Ohtani will focus on hitting in 2024, Yamamoto's presence on the mound will be crucial for the team's success.
Overall, Yamamoto's exhibition debut was a resounding success, showcasing his talent and potential to become a standout pitcher in the MLB. With the support of his teammates and the guidance of experienced players like Ohtani, Yamamoto is poised for a successful transition to the Major Leagues.
