Is Japan's ace ready? Dodgers manager Dave Roberts discusses Yoshinobu Yamamoto's condition and spring game pitching plans

Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the Dodgers' Japanese ace, threw 21 pitches in bullpen work today preparing for his first spring training game this year. The schedule calls for him to face the Angels tomorrow, then pitch away against the Giants, and afterward head back to Japan to join the Classic's Japanese team. Manager Dave Roberts said Yamamoto is more comfortable this year, “more relaxed and focused” than before.

Today at the Arizona spring training facility, Yamamoto threw bullpen sessions as a final tune-up before his first game appearance of 2026.

On February 17, Yamamoto completed his second live batting practice of spring training, throwing 33 pitches to eight batters, allowing three hits, one walk, and striking out two, including giving up a home run to Hyeseong Kim.

According to the team’s plan, Yamamoto will pitch in tomorrow's spring game against the Angels, then rest for five days before pitching again on the road against the Giants. This will serve as his final live game test before joining the Japanese national team. As a key starting pitcher for Japan, his adjustment progress is closely watched.

Manager Roberts said, “He is very relaxed and focused now. Compared to last year, he is better adapted to this environment, which is great for the Dodgers.” As spring training moves into game action, Yamamoto’s pitching performance and physical condition will influence the Dodgers’ starting rotation plans and also affect Japan’s lineup for international competition.