When the Dodgers signed Yoshinobu Yamamoto in December, it despatched shockwaves all through baseball. They gave him a 12-year, $325 million contract, making him the highest-paid pitcher in complete worth. They did this with out him having thrown a pitch in Main League Baseball.
That’s to not say he didn’t earn that contract. He’s gained the NPB MVP and Sawamura Award – NPB Cy Younger equal – thrice. He additionally has a profession 1.72 ERA in seven seasons in Japan.
He sat down with Kirsten Watson of SportsNet LA to debate what he’s wanting ahead to whereas taking part in in MLB. Yamamoto seems to embrace the brand new problem of a brand new league.
“I’m wanting ahead to dealing with gamers on a special stage, a better stage.”
Yamamoto headlines a star-studded Dodgers rotation that features Tyler Glasnow, Walker Buehler, Bobby Miller and Clayton Kershaw. In earlier interviews, Dodgers basic supervisor Brandon Gomes has praised Yamamoto’s pitch combine and his capability to command the baseball.
This spring coaching will mark the primary time Yamamoto will face MLB gamers for the reason that World Baseball Basic. Within the World Baseball Basic, he struck out 12 batters in 7.1 innings and solely allowed two runs.
Followers will get their first have a look at Yamamoto in Dodger Blue in Korea once they open the season in opposition to the Padres.
Obligatory Credit score: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports activities
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