Dodgers fans’ got to see their newest ace finally put on the famous jersey Wednesday. Yoshinobu Yamamoto was officially introduced as a member of the team, and L.A. gave him some fanfare with his first look as a member...
Dodgers fans’ got to see their newest ace finally put on the famous jersey Wednesday. Yoshinobu Yamamoto was officially introduced as a member of the team, and L.A. gave him some fanfare with his first look as a member of the team.
In his introductory press conference, Yamamoto referenced the importance of sustained winning when making his decision and how excited he is to join the Dodgers.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts seemed openly excited during the press conference. With a smile on his face, Roberts provided some insight into what excites him most about watching Yamamoto pitch in person.
For me, who I haven’t put eyes on in person, seen a lot of video, Im really looking forward to him embracing this fanbase and embracing his teammates…There’s also that inner compete that you can hear when he’s speaking
Dave Roberts at Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s introductory press conferenceYamamoto’s pitch mix and command need no introduction. It’s what earned him the largest contract ever given to a pitcher in total value, despite never having thrown a pitch in MLB.
Roberts is looking forward to how the new starter will interact with his teammates and how the fans will welcome him to the city.
Yamamoto mentioned in a separate interview that fans have already stopped him while out and about in L.A., and these interactions should only increase as time goes on. Yamamoto is ready for the challenges ahead, and he reportedly wanted to pitch on the biggest stage.
He will be given the chance to do so with the Dodgers. In his final start in the NPB, Yamamoto threw a shutout with 14 strikeouts on 138 pitches. He showed his value to the team and his willingness to do whatever it took to win.
With a long and storied connection with Asian pitchers, fans will welcome Yamamoto with open arms and loud cheers. With the Dodgers opening the season in Korea against the San Diego Padres, fans may get their first glimpse of him on an international stage.
Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
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