ATLANTA — Just hours before stepping onto the mound, Yoshinobu Yamamoto received recognition as the National League’s pitcher of the month for March and April. His impressive six-inning, scoreless performance against the Atlanta Braves later that day solidified his status as a top contender for future accolades this season. In the Dodgers’ 2-1 victory at Truist Park, Yamamoto not only continued his rise among major league starters but also intensified discussions about his ace potential.
Yamamoto’s outing featured six strikeouts and only one hit allowed, extending his remarkable streak of holding opponents scoreless in three of his last four starts. With an ERA of 0.90, the 26-year-old right-hander has allowed a mere four earned runs over 40 innings. “I’m performing at a really high level,” Yamamoto said through interpreter Yoshihiro Sonoda. He compared his current form to his best days in Japan, suggesting his confidence remains sky-high.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has praised Yamamoto, referring to him as the team’s ace, especially amid injuries sidelining Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow. Roberts remarked on Yamamoto’s ability to consistently deliver quality innings, a trait that elevates his value further. “When you have players that consistently give you a chance to win, you know they’re in rare company,” he said. “Yoshi is putting himself in that category.”
In this outing, after an earlier hiccup against the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he allowed three runs and issued four walks, Yamamoto exhibited resilience. His ability to reset mentally between starts helped him regain his form against a Braves team that had recently found success. “He dominated today, and I don’t think it was even his best stuff, which is incredible,” reliever Evan Phillips noted, expressing admiration for Yamamoto’s dedication and skill.
The first three innings presented minimal threats, with the only close calls involving a couple of near-miss line drives. In contrast, opposing pitcher Grant Holmes faced challenges from the outset, eventually yielding the game’s first run in the fourth inning after a series of hits by the Dodgers. Mookie Betts’ hard-hit comebacker to Holmes marked a turning point, leading to runs that built the Dodgers’ lead.
The Dodgers enjoyed a brief scoring surge in the sixth, with Betts hitting a solo home run. Despite the lack of run support earlier in the game, Yamamoto’s performance rendered it almost inconsequential. He skillfully navigated the Braves lineup, only allowing a late double that was quickly mitigated by a groundout to end the inning.
Even as his no-hit attempt gained traction, Roberts opted to conclude Yamamoto’s impressive outing after 91 pitches, marking a shift in routine for the pitcher. Kirby Yates faced some difficulty in relief, allowing a homer that narrowed the Dodgers’ lead, but the team managed to withstand pressure from the Braves even after a rain delay.
Throughout the game, Yamamoto’s execution was remarkable, as he made hitters struggle to make contact. Will Smith, who caught for Yamamoto, noted his dominance, saying, “He’s pitching like the best pitcher in the world. We’re grateful to have him on our side.” As the season progresses, the Dodgers can only hope that Yamamoto continues to shine in pivotal moments.