Dodgers name World Series hero Yamamoto as Opening Day starter

Yoshinobu Yamamoto will take the mound for the Dodgers on March 26 against the Diamondbacks.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 5:49pm

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The Los Angeles Dodgers have named Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the 2025 World Series MVP, as their Opening Day starter for the upcoming season. Yamamoto, a right-handed pitcher, will take the mound on March 26 when the Dodgers host the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Why it matters

Yamamoto was instrumental in the Dodgers' World Series championship run last season, and his selection as the Opening Day starter signals the team's confidence in him as they aim to become the first team since the 1998-2000 Yankees to win three straight World Series titles.

The details

Yamamoto, 27, went 12-8 with a 2.49 ERA in 30 regular season starts for the Dodgers in 2025. He then dominated in the postseason, going 5-1 with a 1.45 ERA in six appearances, including a complete game 4-hitter in Game 2 of the World Series. On no rest, he also pitched 2 2/3 scoreless innings in relief in the decisive Game 7 victory.

  • Yamamoto will make his second straight Opening Day start on March 26, 2026.
  • The Dodgers are aiming to become the first team since the 1998-2000 New York Yankees to win three straight World Series titles.

The players

Yoshinobu Yamamoto

A 27-year-old right-handed pitcher who was the 2025 World Series MVP for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Dave Roberts

The manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

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What they’re saying

“It is a pretty easy decision, considering that it's an honor to be the Opening Day starter. He started for us last year on the road. But for him to get that start on Opening Day at home, I think it's going to be special.”

— Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager (taylorvilledailynews.com)

What’s next

The Dodgers will be looking to Yamamoto to set the tone for their quest to become the first team since the 1998-2000 Yankees to win three straight World Series titles.

The takeaway

Yamamoto's selection as the Dodgers' Opening Day starter is a testament to his dominant postseason performance last year and the team's confidence in him as they aim to cement their dynasty with a third consecutive World Series championship.