The impressive rookie season of Yoshinobu Yamamoto with the Los Angeles Dodgers has been affected by a shoulder injury. However, he has not yet been ruled out for the remainder of the 2024 season.
Yamamoto‘s last appearance was on June 15 against the Cincinnati Reds, where he was pulled from the game after just two innings due to what was initially described as “triceps stiffness.” However, a recent move placing him on the 60-day injured list has shifted the landscape and raised new questions.
According to ESPN’s Alden Gonzalez, Yoshinobu Yamamoto has been increasing the distance of his throws. Moreover, he has made it clear that he wants to return this season and that the team shares this goal. Gonzalez asked the Japanese pitcher if he intends to pitch again this season, to which the $325 million pitcher replied affirmatively, stating it is one of his goals.
“That’s my goal. … I’m trying to come back as soon as I can,” said Yamamoto.
On the other hand, Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic noted that Yoshinobu Yamamoto mentioned he currently feels no pain, a positive sign for his comeback. Although he is still in the early stages of his recovery program, it is promising that he is not dealing with any pain or initial setbacks.
The Los Angeles Dodgers, with a record of 59-41, hold an eight-game lead over the rest of the National League West Division. Yamamoto’s injury won’t ruin their chances of making the playoffs, especially with Shohei Ohtani still present and hitting home runs as their leadoff batter.
Nevertheless, it’s clear that Yamamoto could be one of the key players for Los Angeles come postseason. After dominating in Japan, Yoshinobu Yamamoto has lived up to expectations for the Dodgers. In 14 starts and 74.0 innings pitched, he boasts a 2.92 ERA, 2.67 FIP, and 84 strikeouts.
Fortunately for the Dodgers, their pitching rotation will improve ahead of Yamamoto‘s hopeful return. Tyler Glasnow and Clayton Kershaw are set to start on Wednesday and Thursday respectively in a series against the San Francisco Giants. However, they remain in pursuit of starting pitchers ahead of the July 30 trade deadline, aiming to add depth considering the injury history of Walker Buehler and James Paxton.
