In a spectacular World Series debut, Los Angeles Dodgers’ right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who signed a record-setting contract as a free agent last winter, was unstoppable, helping the Dodgers secure a 4–2 victory over the Yankees in Game 2. Pitching into the seventh inning, Yamamoto allowed only one hit, easing the workload on a bullpen that has been heavily taxed throughout the playoffs.
Dodgers vs. Yankees Game 2 Highlights
Yamamoto’s performance on Saturday proved invaluable, as he carried a one-hit game into the seventh inning against New York. This outing stands as one of his finest in his MLB debut season, not only for his effectiveness but for the crucial innings he contributed to keep the bullpen fresh.
The Dodgers now hold a 2–0 lead in the World Series over the Yankees. However, there are lingering challenges with their rotation. The team has been operating with just three starters, two of whom have struggled with injuries throughout the season, making it hard to rely on them for extended outings. To compensate, Los Angeles has leaned on its bullpen extensively, often turning to bullpen games even in critical playoff matchups. But on Saturday, Yamamoto’s exceptional performance allowed them to take a collective breath.
This was only the second time in the last 13 playoff games that a Dodgers starter reached the seventh inning. Reliever Michael Kopech, who pitched the eighth inning, expressed the relief Yamamoto’s performance brought: “The bullpen is going to be leaned on a lot during this series,” he said, “and for him to give us that length, not just pitching well but dominating, that’s huge.”
Yamamoto’s outing marked his best start for the Dodgers this season. Over 6 1/3 innings, he allowed only one hit and two walks while striking out four. His control and efficiency were especially impressive as he settled in, retiring the last 11 batters he faced. Notably, this was the first time he had pitched beyond the fifth inning in four months, following a rotator cuff strain that had sidelined him for much of the summer.
Yamamoto’s Championship Pedigree
Yamamoto’s ability to perform under pressure is well-established. Less than a year ago, he pitched a complete game in Game 6 of the Japan Series, recording 14 strikeouts in a legendary 138-pitch outing. Shortly afterward, he signed his 12-year, $325-million contract with the Dodgers, aiming to replicate those championship performances on the World Series stage.
Reflecting on Yamamoto’s outing, manager Dave Roberts was confident in letting him surpass the 80-pitch mark: “Watching how he was throwing, there wasn’t much stress in the game.”
Yamamoto’s brilliance impressed both his teammates and the Yankees. Dodgers catcher Will Smith and third baseman Max Muncy congratulated him as he exited to a standing ovation. “Everything was working well today,” Yamamoto said through an interpreter. Yankees manager Aaron Boone echoed his sentiments, acknowledging Yamamoto’s command over multiple pitches, including a fastball, curveball, slider, and his signature splitter.
A Huge Moment for the Dodgers’ Bullpen
This performance has solidified Yamamoto’s place as a pivotal player in the Dodgers’ lineup. Dodgers outfielder Teoscar Hernández emphasized, “He was made for these moments…we trust in him.” Yamamoto’s dominant outing allowed the bullpen much-needed rest and limited their exposure to New York’s powerful lineup, something that Dodgers reliever Anthony Banda noted took significant pressure off the team.
