The Los Angeles Dodgers have dominated the 2024 offseason. Although Shohei Ohtani was the most coveted prize, L.A. also grabbed the second-best free agent of this class in Japanese sensation Yoshinobu Yamamoto.
Yamamoto, who is only 25 years old, has already accomplished so much playing in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball league. He will look to do the same in the majors as a member of the Dodgers.
While Yamamoto’s talents are clear, his former teammate in Japan, MLB All-Star Adam Jones, said he’s also a great person. Jones spoke with the MLB Network crew and provided insight into who Yamamoto is as a person.
“He’s just awesome. He smiles, he’s personable. Obviously seems a little bit more open than Shohei. Obviously, Shohei and the agent kept him real quiet, and just focused on baseball. I think Shohei and L.A. will open both those guys up.”
Jones was teammates with Yamamoto for two seasons in 2020 and 2021. He knows exactly what he’s like and got a glimpse of his capabilities before most of the baseball world in America. He spoke about Yamamoto’s incredible preparation, and how ready he is for the MLB.
“Yamamoto is just a beauty. It was great to see his preparation,” Jones said. “He’s prepared his whole life for this moment. And as a baseball fan, I’m just excited to see him take on this challenge.”
Not only is Yamamoto a great person and pitcher, but he’s disciplined and dedicated to the game. He prepares better than anyone Jones has seen, which is a great attribute for a player hoping to have sustained success in MLB.
Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
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