Japan's latest baseball prodigy, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, is on the verge of a career-defining move, preparing to make waves in Major League Baseball (MLB). His impressive stats and formidable skills have put him on the radar of several high-profile MLB teams, with the Atlanta Braves being among the front-runners. This article will delve into Yamamoto's career, achievements, and the potential impact he could have on the Braves if signed.
The Rise of Yoshinobu Yamamoto
Yoshinobu Yamamoto's journey began with the Orix Buffaloes in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). His prowess on the mound was evident from his early career, earning him the coveted Eiji Sawamura Award, given to Japan's top starting pitcher, on three separate occasions.
His stellar record in the most recent season boasted a 16-6 win-loss ratio with an impressive 1.21 ERA. This feat secured him his third consecutive Triple Crown in the NPB's Pacific League, highlighting his dominant presence in wins, ERA, and strikeouts.
Yamamoto's skills extend well beyond domestic leagues. The right-hander, known for his mid-to-high 90s fastball, played a pivotal role in Japan's Olympic gold medal win in Tokyo and clinched the World Baseball Classic in March.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto against Australia in the WBC. 8 Ks in 4 IP. pic.twitter.com/Ds4GaQdDk6
— Tyler Milliken ⚾️ (@tylermilliken_) September 26, 2023
MLB: A new frontier
A move to the MLB isn't rare for Japanese players. Yamamoto follows in the illustrious footsteps of Ichiro Suzuki, Hideki Matsui, and the current sensation, Shohei Ohtani. However, the buzz around Yamamoto's free agency is unprecedented, given his age and consistent performance.
Among the many teams vying for his signature are the New York Yankees, New York Mets, Boston Red Sox, and the Los Angeles Dodgers. But one team that could benefit immensely from his talent is the Atlanta Braves.
The Atlanta Braves and Yoshinobu Yamamoto are a perfect fit
Bringing Yamamoto on board would be a game-changer for the Atlanta Braves. The team's solid lineup, coupled with Yamamoto's exceptional skills, could make for a formidable combination, elevating the team's standing in the league.
Signing with the Braves could be just as beneficial for Yamamoto. The team's seasoned coaches and supportive fanbase could provide the ideal environment for him to flourish in the MLB.
How Braves can make Yamamoto a real possibility
Yoshinobu Yamamoto's impending move to the MLB creates waves in baseball. The 25-year-old's impressive record and unyielding talent make him a hot commodity for many teams. However, for the Atlanta Braves to manage to secure his signature, it would be an incredible journey for the player and the team, but three things need to happen.
They need to shed some salary; the Braves don't overextend like the Yankees, Phillies and Dodgers. They make strategic and sometimes difficult moves to keep themselves always contending.
Heading into 2024, the team has just $131 million committed to the roster's long-term deals. They will need to shed Charlie Morton's contract. That will give the Braves an extra $20 million to play with.
Next up on the Make Yamamoto a Brave checklist, they must find a suitor and trade reliever Reynaldo Lopez. At 29, with above-average but not irreplaceable production and $30 million left on his contract, they could move him, add an outfield prospect and dump some money.
Lastly, the Braves are an elite organization but lack international appeal. They have never had an Ichiro, Matsu or Tanaka-level star to build a Japanese following. The Braves could jump on LHP Japanese free agent Yuki Matsui. This would get them in headlines and social media posts across Japan; it's a start. Second, schedule an opening season international game in Japan against a fan favorite, the Yankees/Mariners or, more reasonably, the Mets.
Boost Japanese relevancy, don't resign Morton, and trade Lopez. It doesn't sound that hard, and Yamamoto could be wearing number 18 for the Braves late in the postseason next year.