Yoshinobu Yamamoto is a coveted talent that would be an asset for almost any team. The three-time Pacific League MVP could make a strong case for being the best pitcher from Japan, at least in this century. As a result, there is an almost unprecedented interest for him in the league. With more than 10 teams inquiring for him, the sweepstakes are running at an all-time high. But it seems the frontrunners are fixed, it’s either the New York Yankees or the New York Mets.

The New York teams are in an intense battle for the Samurai Japan ace. With both teams looking for quality starting pitchers, they’re willing to go as far as possible to get Yamamoto’s service. Still, it seems the Yankees may have a slight edge over their cross-town rivals.

The New York Yankees are ahead of the group for Yamamoto

The New York Mets may have the richest owner and the biggest payroll in baseball today, but the Yankees aren’t far behind. While monetarily the Bronx squad can go toe to toe with anyone, it’s in the legacy where they have no peers. The 27-time World Series-winning side has one of the richest history in baseball. This is something that attracts the biggest of players. Perhaps that’s why MLB.com put them at no.1 in the “Yamamoto’s potential landing spots”.

Yoshinobu’s reportedly already intrigued by the aura and prestige that the Yankees bring to the table. This could make it easy for the Pinstripes to bring him into their fold. Considering the team’s established legacy, there is an additional influential factor that may affect the 25-year-old’s pursuit of joining the Yankees in the offseason.

Per MLB.com, the “Japanese players have clearly flourished in the Bronx”. The legendary Ichiro Suzuki played for them, and so did the ace Masahiro Tanaka. When they signed Tanaka for $155 million in 2013, that became the highest contract ever for a Japanese player coming to MLB. Could the history repeat itself with the Bombers breaking their own record by signing Yamamoto for $200 million?

Where will Yoshinobu Yamamoto fit into their roster?

The Yankees already have a strong starting pitching lineup. Yamamoto would slot right in with the Cy Young winner Gerrit Cole. A strong bullpen could be an attractive proposition for the ace, as it would enable him to get proper rest between his games. 

Yamamoto would immediately slot in as no.2. Especially if the Yankees decide to trade Clarke Schmidt this offseason. While he probably wouldn’t displace Cole, Yamamoto would get many opportunities to play. Other than that, his fastballs would turn the Yankees into a dynamic pitching side. He could become a major part of a potential Bronx revival in 2024. 

Read more: Yankees Make Special Yoshinobu Yamamoto Gesture, Go Above And Beyond in Japanese Ace Pursuit

With the New York teams firmly at the top, who will prevail in the race for Yoshinobu Yamamoto?

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