Introduction to Greatness
The Moment of Truth
Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s journey to making the 2025 World Series his greatest moment began shortly after the Dodgers won Game 6. Yamamoto approached his longtime personal trainer, Osamu Yada, and expressed his gratitude for the season. However, Yada had other plans, suggesting that Yamamoto throw in the bullpen the next day to provide a psychological edge over the Toronto Blue Jays.
A Legendary Performance
Yamamoto’s performance in Game 7 was nothing short of legendary. Pitching the final 2 innings of an 11-inning, championship-clinching 5-4 victory, Yamamoto won his third game of the World Series. When he forced Alejando Kirk to ground into a game-ending double play, Yamamoto removed his cap and raised his arms toward the heavens. Catcher Will Smith rushed the mound and picked him up from the waist.
A Throwback Performance
Yamamoto pitched a complete game in Game 2 and six more in Game 6. His contributions in Game 7 increased his series total to 17 innings, over which he allowed only two runs. This throwback performance earned him the series’ most valuable player award, as well as universal admiration.
Admiration from Peers
Shohei Ohtani praised Yamamoto, saying, "I really think he’s the No. 1 pitcher in the world. Everyone on the team thinks that, too." Freddie Freeman marveled at the workload shouldered by Yamamoto, who was sidelined for three months last year with shoulder problems.
A Historic Achievement
President of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said of Yamamoto’s Game 7 performance, "For him to have the same stuff that he had the night before is really the greatest accomplishment I’ve ever seen on a major league baseball field." Friedman didn’t think any other pitcher could have done what Yamamoto did in this series.
The Road to Victory
Yamamoto’s journey to pitching in Game 7 was not straightforward. He didn’t think he would pitch, but after practicing and feeling good, he found himself on the mound. His interpreter, Yoshihiro Sonoda, was prepared, wearing the same pair of lucky underwear he had worn for Game 6.
The Final Moments
Yamamoto had never pitched on consecutive days as a professional, but he was called on to relieve Blake Snell in the ninth inning. He inherited two baserunners and loaded the bases, but managed to force a force out at home and prevent the Blue Jays from scoring the walk-off run. Yamamoto pitched a 1-2-3 10th inning and went into the bottom of the 11th with a 5-4 lead.
The Game-Ending Double Play
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. started the inning by pulling a 96.9-mph fastball for a double and advanced to third base on a sacrifice bunt. Yamamoto walked Addison Barger to place runners on the corners, setting up the game-ending double play by Kirk. Yamamoto said, "I really couldn’t believe it. I was so excited I couldn’t even recall what kind of pitch I threw at the end."
Conclusion
Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s performance in the 2025 World Series will be remembered for years to come. His dedication, perseverance, and skill made him a legend on the field. As he was moved to tears by the moment, it was clear that this was his greatest moment.
FAQs
Q: What was Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s role in the 2025 World Series?
A: Yamamoto was a pitcher for the Dodgers and played a crucial role in their championship win.
Q: How many games did Yamamoto win in the World Series?
A: Yamamoto won three games in the World Series.
Q: What was the final score of Game 7?
A: The final score of Game 7 was 5-4 in favor of the Dodgers.
Q: Who was the series’ most valuable player?
A: Yoshinobu Yamamoto was the series’ most valuable player.
Q: What was the significance of Yoshihiro Sonoda’s lucky underwear?
A: Sonoda wore the same pair of lucky underwear for Game 6 and Game 7, as he sensed Yamamoto might pitch again.
