Los Angeles Dodgers ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto had a lot to celebrate after his team’s thrilling victory in Game 7 of the World Series. But amidst all the excitement and jubilation, Yamamoto couldn’t help but make a lighthearted joke about how he ended up pitching for the Dodgers in the decisive game.
In a post-game interview, the Japanese pitcher was asked about his thoughts on being chosen to start Game 7. With a smile on his face, Yamamoto replied, “To be honest, I feel a little tricked into pitching for the Dodgers tonight.”
The statement may have come as a surprise to many, considering Yamamoto’s stellar performance on the mound. He pitched six scoreless innings, allowing only three hits and striking out eight batters. His impressive outing helped lead the Dodgers to a 4-2 victory over the Houston Astros, securing their first World Series title since 1988.
But for Yamamoto, it was all in good fun. The 27-year-old pitcher explained that he had been told he would be starting Game 6, but the team had a change of plans at the last minute. “I was all prepared to pitch yesterday, but then they told me I would be starting Game 7 instead. I guess I was tricked into it,” he joked.
Despite the playful nature of his comment, Yamamoto’s dedication and determination were evident throughout the game. He remained focused and composed, delivering pitch after pitch with precision and control. And when the final out was recorded, he couldn’t contain his excitement as he celebrated with his teammates on the field.
Yamamoto’s journey to the World Series has been a remarkable one. He joined the Dodgers in 2018 after spending several years playing in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball league. In his first season with the team, he quickly established himself as a key member of the pitching rotation, earning a spot in the All-Star game and finishing the season with a 2.68 ERA.
But it was in the playoffs where Yamamoto truly shined. He pitched a gem in Game 3 of the National League Championship Series, helping the Dodgers secure a crucial win against the Atlanta Braves. And in the World Series, he proved to be a reliable and dominant force on the mound, earning the trust and admiration of his teammates and coaches.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts praised Yamamoto’s performance in Game 7, saying, “He was outstanding. He gave us everything we needed and more. He’s a big part of why we’re standing here as World Series champions.”
Yamamoto’s journey to the World Series may have been unexpected, but his talent and hard work have earned him a well-deserved spot on the Dodgers’ roster. And his lighthearted joke about being “tricked” into pitching for the team only adds to his likable and humble personality.
As the Dodgers celebrate their long-awaited World Series victory, Yamamoto’s joke serves as a reminder that even in the midst of high-stakes games, it’s important to maintain a sense of humor and enjoy the moment. And for Yamamoto, there’s no doubt that being “tricked” into pitching for the Dodgers in Game 7 will be a memory he will cherish for years to come.
