As first reported by Yahoo Japan, the Los Angeles Dodgers this week confirmed that ace right-hander and reigning World Series MVP Yoshinobu Yamamoto will represent Japan in next spring’s World Baseball Classic. The commitment marks his second consecutive appearance in the tournament and further elevates his status as one of baseball’s most globally recognized stars.

For the Dodgers, Yamamoto’s decision caps off a year in which he became the face of their rotation and one of the most influential figures in the franchise. His season could hardly have gone better. The 27-year-old not only anchored Los Angeles on the mound but delivered his finest work in October, helping secure a championship and earning World Series MVP honors. His elite command, signature splitter, and relentless poise made him a sensation in both Los Angeles and Japan, transforming him into one of the most recognizable pitchers in the sport.

Yamamoto’s participation in the WBC brings additional visibility to the Dodgers brand, something the organization has long embraced. Over the years, L.A. has consistently leaned into its global reach, and Yamamoto’s stardom only expands that footprint. Unlike some pitchers whose teams express concern about early-season workload, Yamamoto’s carefully calibrated training programs and history of durability make him uniquely well-equipped to handle the demands of a major international tournament. The Dodgers trust his preparation and understand the pride he takes in representing his home country on the world stage.

While Yamamoto’s commitment is a major positive, Japan’s pitching picture is also marked by the absence of one of its brightest young arms. Roki Sasaki, the 24-year-old phenom whose triple-digit fastball and historic NPB performances have drawn widespread MLB attention, will not participate in the 2026 WBC. He spent significant time on the 60-day injured list this season due to a right shoulder impingement, missing roughly four months. Although he voiced his desire to compete, medical staff determined that returning to high-intensity action posed too great a risk.

For the Dodgers, Sasaki’s situation serves as a reminder of the fragility of elite pitching—even among the most talented young arms. His absence underscores how crucial Yamamoto’s consistency and health remain as Los Angeles builds toward another deep postseason run.

With Yamamoto set to take the mound for Japan, the tournament will provide yet another stage for the Dodgers’ ace to showcase his world-class talent. When he returns to Los Angeles, he’ll resume his role at the top of the rotation, carrying not only championship experience but international momentum into the 2026 MLB season.

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