The Los Angeles Dodgers welcomed back pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto after a three-month absence due to a strained rotator cuff. The 25-year-old Japanese pitcher, who signed a record-breaking $325 million contract last December, is eager to return to the mound for the Dodgers. His return start against the Chicago Cubs was highly anticipated as he looks to continue his solid performance from earlier in the season when he was 6-2 with a 2.92 ERA in 14 starts. He faced off against Cubs pitcher Shota Imanaga, a 31-year-old left-hander who has been impressive in his rookie season with a 12-3 record and a 2.99 ERA through 26 starts.
Imanaga has outshined his higher-paid countryman, Yamamoto, in the 2024 season and is likely to receive consideration for Rookie of the Year votes. Despite signing a two-year, $22.5 million contract through next season, Yamamoto has a better chance of pitching meaningful games in the postseason for the Dodgers. The team, tied for the best record in MLB with the Philadelphia Phillies, is leading the National League West by 5.5 games over the San Diego Padres. With a first-round bye into the NL Division Series if the season ended today, the Dodgers are looking to solidify their rotation for the playoffs.
The Dodgers have had uncertainties in their starting rotation, with only a few reliable options beyond the recently acquired Jack Flaherty. Yamamoto’s return is expected to bolster the team as they prepare for the postseason. Other pitchers like Bobby Miller, who has had a disappointing season, are unlikely to be part of the October rotation plans. The team is hopeful that injured pitchers like Gavin Stone, Clayton Kershaw, and Tyler Glasnow will be able to return in time for the playoffs, but their statuses remain uncertain.
Yamamoto will need to quickly shake off any rust from his extended stay on the injured list and prove himself in the remaining weeks of the regular season. With the Dodgers looking to contend for a playoff spot and potentially a World Series title, his performance will be crucial down the stretch. In a corresponding roster move, the team designated left-handed reliever Nick Ramirez for assignment to make room for Yamamoto’s return. Despite multiple transactions between Triple-A and the major league team this season, Ramirez has had limited opportunities to pitch for the Dodgers.
As the regular season winds down and the postseason approaches, the Dodgers are focused on strengthening their roster and solidifying their pitching staff to make a deep playoff run. With Yamamoto back in the rotation, the team is hoping to capitalize on their strong position in the standings and compete for a championship. The return of key players from the injured list will be essential for the Dodgers to navigate the playoffs successfully and overcome any challenges that come their way.
