Despite his height of just 178cm – falling close to 10cm short of the average pitcher height in Major League Baseball (MLB) – he is currently regarded as one of the game’s most powerful pitchers, throwing a fastball averaging 153km/h. And there’s no doubt the Dodgers value his talents – Yamamoto’s contract makes the Japanese player the highest-paid pitcher in league history.
With the buzz surrounding Ohtani’s talent, only time will tell if Yamamoto will bring similar hype, excitement and revenue to the MLB. If the league’s popularity in Japan and the so-called “Sho-time” craze is any indication, Yamamoto’s foray into the American league could further shine a global spotlight on Japanese baseball players.
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Like Ohtani, Yamamoto found success in Nippon Professional Baseball – the highest level of baseball in Japan – before catching the attention of the American league. His professional career began in the 2017 season with the Osaka-based Orix Buffaloes, where he remained until he transferred to the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Nike announced a collaboration with the player after his contract with the Dodgers was confirmed. The brand shared the news with fans via the Nike Diamond Instagram account, officially welcoming the player to its roster of athletes.
When it comes to his own Instagram account, Yamamoto is relatively reserved, revealing little of a personal nature to his one million followers. Most of his posts are dedicated to baseball, be it scenes from the locker room or on the diamond. He often shares photos of his teammates too, including a pinned photo of himself with Ohtani taken before signing with the Dodgers – an indication to fans that he’s likely excited to play alongside his friend in the MLB.
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When not pitching on the field, Yamamoto enjoys seeking out adventure and is perhaps a bit of an adrenaline junkie. In a new year 2021 post, he shared a video of himself bungee jumping.
Yamamoto’s more relaxing hobbies include pottery, which, as he revealed to fans, is one of the more complex pursuits he’s tried his hand at.
Another favourite pastime he’s documented on social media is fishing. During one holiday, he and three friends caught more than 75 fish, as seen on his Instagram. Over the years, Yamamoto has shared images of some of his biggest catches with his followers.
His posts about fishing during the off-season have prompted fans across the US to comment and suggest different locations around the country where he can angle.
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