Yoshinobu Yamamoto Emerges as Dodgers' Ace Amid Ohtani's Shadow

The unassuming pitcher has transformed into a World Series hero and Cy Young contender for the Dodgers.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Yoshinobu Yamamoto, once overshadowed by teammate Shohei Ohtani, has become an essential leader for the Dodgers as they chase a third consecutive championship. Despite his World Series heroics, Yamamoto remains humble and focused, determined to build on his success and support the team's other pitchers. As he balances playing for Japan in the World Baseball Classic, Yamamoto must maintain his calm demeanor and dominant performance to cement his status as the Dodgers' ace.

Why it matters

Yamamoto's rise to prominence highlights the Dodgers' depth and resilience, as they navigate the challenge of managing superstar talents like Ohtani and Yamamoto. His ability to step up in the biggest moments has been crucial to the team's championship aspirations, and his leadership and work ethic set an example for the rest of the roster.

The details

After struggling at times during his first two seasons with the Dodgers, Yamamoto emerged as a dominant force in the 2025 World Series, shutting down the Toronto Blue Jays with a historic performance. Despite his newfound fame, Yamamoto has maintained his humble and unassuming demeanor, focusing on his preparation and supporting his teammates. As the Dodgers chase a third straight title, Yamamoto must continue to excel on the mound while managing his workload and participation in the World Baseball Classic.

  • Yamamoto joined the Dodgers at the same time as Shohei Ohtani in a high-profile contract.
  • Yamamoto struggled at times during his first two regular seasons with the Dodgers.
  • In the 2025 World Series, Yamamoto delivered a dominant performance, allowing just two runs in 17 2/3 innings with 15 strikeouts.
  • Yamamoto is set to represent Japan in the upcoming World Baseball Classic, while Ohtani will not pitch for Team USA.

The players

Yoshinobu Yamamoto

A 5-foot-10 pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers who has emerged as a key leader and Cy Young contender for the team.

Shohei Ohtani

Yamamoto's teammate and one of the greatest players in baseball, who has won two National League MVP awards.

Dave Roberts

The manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, who has guided the team to two consecutive World Series championships.

Andrew Friedman

The president of baseball operations for the Los Angeles Dodgers, who has built a championship-caliber roster.

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What they’re saying

“For him to have the same stuff that he had the night before is really the greatest accomplishment I've ever seen on a baseball field.”

— Andrew Friedman, President of Baseball Operations, Los Angeles Dodgers (Los Angeles Times)

“Every time he takes the ball, he expects to win and we expect to win.”

— Dave Roberts, Manager, Los Angeles Dodgers (Los Angeles Times)

What’s next

Yamamoto will need to maintain his dominant performance and avoid injury as he represents Japan in the upcoming World Baseball Classic, while also supporting the Dodgers' other pitchers in their quest for a third straight championship.

The takeaway

Yoshinobu Yamamoto's transformation from a struggling pitcher to a World Series hero and Cy Young contender highlights the Dodgers' ability to develop talent and the importance of maintaining a calm, focused demeanor in the face of high expectations and pressure. His leadership and work ethic have become essential to the team's continued success.