Two Pitching Quadruple Crowns
Yoshinobu Yamamoto joined Orix as a 4th-round 2017 pick from Miyakonojo High School. In 2021, he achieved the pitching quadruple crown with 18 wins, 5 losses, 1.39 ERA, 206 strikeouts, and .783 winning percentage. His 2022 encore produced 15 wins, 5 losses, 1.68 ERA, and 205 strikeouts for consecutive quadruple crowns - an NPB first demonstrating overwhelming dominance. He also won consecutive 2021-2022 Sawamura Awards.
Sawamura Award books offer useful context
Orix Three-Peat Pillar
Yamamoto anchored Orix's 2021-2023 three consecutive pennants. His 2022 Japan Series featured 2 wins against Yakult earning Series MVP, delivering Orix's first title in 26 years. His arsenal combined 150+ km/h fastball with cutter, curve, and fork. His cutter precision was NPB-elite, sharply carving inside corners. Yamamoto pursued becoming a pitcher who could throw strikes with every pitch, emphasizing control refinement.
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Dodgers Transfer
Yamamoto joined the LA Dodgers via 2024 posting system. The 12-year, $325 million contract was MLB's largest ever for a pitcher, reflecting extraordinary evaluation. He became teammates with Shohei Ohtani, creating the historic scene of Japanese pitcher and hitter starring together. Yamamoto entered the starting rotation from year one, deploying NPB-cultivated pitching craft on the MLB stage.
Yamamoto's Pitching Philosophy
Yamamoto's philosophy centers on continuous evolution. Eschewing conventional weight training, he developed unique methods incorporating javelin-throwing motions. This innovative approach contributes to flexible shoulder movement and mechanical stability. Yamamoto states finding personally suitable methods beyond conventional wisdom matters most, providing fresh perspectives for NPB pitcher development. Yoshinobu Yamamoto ranks among NPB's greatest pitchers, with his challenge just beginning.