Dodgers' Yoshinobu Yamamoto gets work in during Cactus League opener - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Jack Vita

February 21, 2026

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Yoshinobu Yamamoto made a strong debut in his Cactus League opener against the Angels, striking out three batters and allowing just one earned run over five outs. Despite expectations that this might be his only start before joining Team Japan for the World Baseball Classic (WBC), Yamamoto revealed he plans to pitch once more before departing. Manager Dave Roberts expressed confidence in Yamamoto’s ability to balance his WBC preparations with his performance for the Dodgers, highlighting the pitcher’s focus on efficiency and effectiveness. Yamamoto’s outing was a mix of success and challenges. He dominated the first inning, showcasing his fastball, splitter, and other pitches, which clocked between 91-94 mph. However, the long breaks between innings disrupted his rhythm in the second inning, leading to some difficulties. Despite this, Yamamoto remained composed, striking out key batters and limiting damage. His ability to maintain focus despite the adversity demonstrated his maturity and readiness for the upcoming WBC. The game also highlighted the Dodgers’ offensive potential, with players like Hyeseong Kim contributing significantly with RBIs and Shohei Ohtani leading a strong lineup. The team’s 15-2 victory was a testament to their depth and attacking approach. Yamamoto’s performance, combined with the Dodgers’ offensive outburst, set a positive tone for spring training as they gear up for both the regular season and international competition. Yamamoto’s outing was not just about the game itself but also about his preparation for the WBC. His manager emphasized trust in his ability to manage his workload effectively. As Yamamoto continues to balance his commitments with the Dodgers and Team Japan, his performance will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. This story matters because it underscores the challenges and opportunities faced by players during spring training, particularly those juggling national team duties with their regular season prep.

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/21/2026