Words of wisdom pour in already from Yoshinobu Yamamoto. After his signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers, the 25-year-old stands juxtaposed with his teammate Shohei Ohtani. Granted that Yamamoto is an MLB debutant, he’d have a lot to observe and learn. But which player is he going to take mentorship from? 

After the $700 million move the Dodgers made with Shohei Ohtani, Yamamoto was soon to become the next big thing. Soon enough, the Blue Crew had him over. But Yoshi’s words were contrary to the rumor that the Unicorn persuaded him. So how exactly did the recruitment process go on? 

Yamamoto Shares His Unique Strategy For Improving His Pitching 

MLB Network tweeted a clip where LA’s new recruit, the former Orix Buffaloes star, appeared sharing his plans. Upon being asked about whom he would model his game after, Yamamoto said via his translator, “Don’t really model a game after anyone in particular, per se. But if anything, just kind of taking little bits and pieces from each player that is in the locker room with them and guys that have success already is how he would like to continue to grow as a pitcher.”  

The man who won the 3x Eiji Sawamura Award shared his desire to face MLB hitters. He said during the interview that he was looking forward to facing the slugger Masataka Yoshida of the Boston Red Sox, who has been a former teammate of his. Additionally, he addressed questions about how Shohei influenced his decision to join the Blue Crew. 

Early in December, when Shotime locked a deal to become a Blue Boy for 10 years, folks were curious about what else they could do. To the world’s surprise, surpassing other tough competitors like the New York Yankees, the Mets, the San Francisco Giants, and the Philadelphia Phillies, the Dodgers acquired the celebrated debutant, Yoshinobu Yamamoto. But the real question is, did Ohtani influence his decision to sign with the Blue Crew? 

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Shohei Ohtani’s Unique Influence on Yoshinobu Yamamoto Picking His New Team

During the interview, he was asked about the 29-year-old’s role in his recruitment with Los Angeles. To that, Yoshi replied via his translator that Ohtani was never pushy about any team in particular. Instead, he mentioned “over and over again” that he would constantly support Yoshi and answer any of his questions, no matter which team he chose. That really stuck with the MLB untouched. 

Read More: Yoshinobu Yamamoto Shows Resolve to Face MLB’s Best Stars, Aims to Inspire the Next Generation

While the 2024 spring is nearing, the world gears up for some fresh faces and new arrangements in teams. With Ohtani not on the mound this year, maybe Yamamoto can be the one shining as a pitcher. Nevertheless, it would be interesting to see their camaraderie play out on the diamond.