The Los Angeles Dodgers made a major announcement on Wednesday, introducing Japanese right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto as their newest addition. The team finalized a 12-year contract with Yamamoto, reportedly worth $325 million, making it the most lucrative deal ever given to a pitcher. In addition, the Dodgers are also responsible for a posting fee of around $50 million to Yamamoto’s former team, the Orix Buffaloes.
Yamamoto, 25, expressed his enthusiasm about joining the historic franchise during his introductory press conference at Dodger Stadium. The contract includes a $50 million signing bonus, with no deferrals, and includes opt-outs after the sixth and eighth years.
Despite speculation that the presence of fellow Japanese star Shohei Ohtani may have influenced his decision, Yamamoto clarified that his choice to join the Dodgers was not solely based on Ohtani’s presence. He emphasized his admiration for Ohtani as a player and expressed his excitement about playing alongside him.
Yamamoto is regarded as a potential frontline starter, possessing an impressive pitching repertoire that includes a mid-to-upper 90s fastball and multiple secondary pitches. He has achieved numerous accolades in Nippon Professional Baseball, including winning the pitching Triple Crown and the Eiji Sawamura Award, Japan’s equivalent of the Cy Young, for three consecutive seasons.
The Dodgers’ president of baseball operations, Andrew Friedman, expressed his excitement about adding Yamamoto to their roster, citing the pitcher’s exceptional talent, work ethic, and mental toughness. He believes that Yamamoto will become a dynamic force in the team’s starting rotation for years to come.
The acquisition of Yamamoto further solidifies the Dodgers’ strong offseason, following their signing of Shohei Ohtani to a record-breaking 10-year, $700 million deal and the extension of right-hander Tyler Glasnow. Los Angeles fans can anticipate an exciting 2024 season with their newest star pitcher on board.