Yoshinobu Yamamoto delivered a strong performance in his Los Angeles Dodgers debut, pitching five innings of one-run ball in the team’s 4-1 victory over the Chicago Cubs in the Tokyo Series opener. Displaying a fastball reaching 98 mph and a deceptive splitter, Yamamoto impressed manager Dave Roberts.
Los Angeles Dodgers, Dave Roberts Forsees A Big 2025 For Yamamoto
Despite understanding the importance of maintaining perspective, Roberts couldn’t hide his enthusiasm. “I think last year to this year, the confidence and conviction he has throwing the fastball in the strike zone is night and day,” Roberts said post-game. “If he can continue to do that, I see no reason he won’t be in the Cy Young conversation this season.”
Yamamoto’s 2024 season was marked by a rotator cuff injury, limiting him to 18 starts. However, he showcased his potential, posting a 7-2 record with a 3.00 ERA, justifying the Dodgers’ $50 million posting fee. His strong performance continued into the postseason, where he rebounded from a challenging start against the San Diego Padres to deliver three solid outings. The Dodgers’ confidence in Yamamoto led to him being named the 2025 Opening Day starter, with Roki Sasaki set to follow in game two.
While the pitching has met expectations, the Dodgers’ batting lineup has been impacted by injuries and illness. Freddie Freeman, dealing with recurring rib discomfort, and Mookie Betts, battling an illness that has resulted in significant weight loss, were both absent from the lineup.
“I thought we made the right decision not playing him tonight, and we’ll see how he comes in tomorrow,” Roberts said of Freeman, per MLB.com’s Sonja Chen. “So right now, I’m not too concerned.” Freeman reassured fans that his current injury is less severe than last year’s, stating, “Obviously, way better than last year. Last year, I needed help getting to my car that first day. I can walk. I can take deep breaths. Just felt a little something in my rib, and with it being the first game, we didn’t want it to be something lingering. So hopefully treat it today, come in tomorrow and see how it is.”
Betts’ illness is not believed to be contagious, and he has participated in team workouts. According to Chen, he is feeling “much better,” but will remain out for the second game.