Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto recently made a bold move by choosing the Dodgers as his new team. While some may assume that his decision was solely influenced by the presence of Shohei Ohtani, Yamamoto made it clear that his desire to win was the most significant factor in his choice. In a news conference, Yamamoto expressed that winning both in the present and in the future was the pivotal aspect of his decision-making process. Although the presence of Ohtani was an added bonus, Yamamoto stated that even if Ohtani had chosen another team, he would have still ended up in Los Angeles.
Yamamoto signed a remarkable 12-year, $325 million deal with the Dodgers, highlighting the team’s commitment to maintaining a winning culture. He commended the Dodgers for their dedication to win and expressed his gratitude towards Ohtani for structuring his own 10-year, $700 million deal in a way that allowed the Dodgers to pursue other talented players like himself. Yamamoto emphasized that it was not just the front office’s ambition but also the players’ belief in the winning atmosphere that resonated with him.
Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes revealed that the entire organization scouted Yamamoto extensively and were deeply impressed by his skills and routine from the moment he took the field in Japan. Gomes described Yamamoto’s warm-up routine as incredibly impressive, with each throw demonstrating a heightened level of intent and focus. Yamamoto’s ability to throw long distances in a straight line showcased his precision and power, leaving a lasting impression on the Dodgers’ scouting team.
Yamamoto joins a pitching staff that includes fellow standouts Tyler Glasnow and Walker Buehler, who is set to return next season after undergoing Tommy John surgery. When asked if seeing Japanese pitchers like Kenta Maeda in a Dodgers uniform influenced his decision, Yamamoto acknowledged that while it was not the sole reason for choosing the Dodgers, witnessing Maeda’s performance in a playoff game when he was 19 intensified his desire to play in the major leagues.
Yamamoto expressed his excitement at playing alongside Ohtani and becoming the face of the pitching staff until Ohtani’s return to the mound in 2025. He shared that Ohtani had encouraged him to reach out whenever needed, creating a comfortable environment for their future collaboration. The opportunity to play with Ohtani holds great significance for Yamamoto, and he is eager to embark on this journey together.
Although Yamamoto did not declare himself a Dodgers fan while growing up, he admitted that he had always admired the team. He never imagined that ascending to the big leagues, especially with a historic team like the Dodgers, was within reach. Yamamoto’s journey to the Dodgers represents a dream come true and an opportunity to contribute to the team’s rich legacy.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s decision to join the Los Angeles Dodgers was driven by his burning desire to win. While the presence of Shohei Ohtani was significant, Yamamoto’s primary focus was on the Dodgers’ reputation for success and their commitment to maintaining a winning culture. The organization’s belief in his abilities and his admiration for his future teammate, Ohtani, solidified his decision. As Yamamoto begins his journey with the Dodgers, he aims to make a lasting impact and contribute to the team’s continued success.
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