The Los Angeles Dodgers" latest pitching sensation, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, is making waves in the preseason, leaving teammates and fans buzzing with anticipation ahead of his first Cactus League appearance.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto has yet to make his MLB debut, but that hasn't kept his teammates from being continuously impressed with him.
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Fresh off signing a notable 12-year, $325 million deal this offseason, the 25-year-old right-hander is yet to make his official MLB debut, but his early performances in live batting practice have garnered high praise.
Freddie Freeman, Dodgers" seasoned first baseman, didn"t hold back, describing Yamamoto"s display as “incredible," while star outfielder Mookie Betts applauded the young pitcher with a standing ovation, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.
In Thursday"s live batting practice session, Yamamoto showcased his skills, tossing two simulated innings against formidable hitters like Freeman, Jason Heyward, and Miguel Vargas.
He managed to limit hard contact and secured strikeouts with sharp breaking balls. While scheduled to face off against the renowned Shohei Ohtani, the two-way superstar opted not to bat, leaving fans eager for a potential showdown in future sessions.
Speaking through interpreter Hiro Sonoda, Yamamoto expressed confidence in his progress, stating, “I"ve been feeling good. I"m just pretending this is a real game. Probably the next step will be a real game that I throw."
Yoshinobu Yamamoto talks to the media after his live BP session pic.twitter.com/RqfFoKomlj
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Manager Dave Roberts hinted earlier this week that Yamamoto, alongside Tyler Glasnow, is likely to start games against the San Diego Padres in the Seoul Series, scheduled to open the season in Seoul, South Korea on March 20-21.
While Yamamoto acknowledged the potential honor of starting in the Seoul Series, he remains focused on contributing to the team"s victories, stating, “I will do my best to contribute to winning the game."
With his first Cactus League start anticipated next week, Yoshinobu Yamamoto has already become a standout figure in the Dodgers" preseason narrative, and fans are eagerly awaiting his official debut on the mound.
