Yoshinobu Yamamoto, World Series MVP, will open the Los Angeles Dodgers' season at home against Arizona on March 26, manager Dave Roberts confirmed. The 27-year-old right-hander, a cornerstone of the 2024 World Series champions, will reprise his role as the team's first and last pitcher, a pattern seen in last year's historic 11-inning Game 7 clinch. $325 million, a 12-year contract, underscores his status as one of MLB's most valuable arms. Over 48 starts, Yamamoto posted a 19-10 record with a 2.66 ERA, while his 7-0 playoff record included two World Series wins.

His 96-pitch effort in Game 6 and 34-pitch closeout in Game 7 solidified his reputation as a clutch performer. Only three pitchers since 1925 have won Games 6 and 7 of the same World Series, with Yamamoto joining Randy Johnson, Harry Brecheen, and Ray Kremer. His performance in Tokyo last season—five innings, one run allowed—highlighted his international pedigree.

The Dodgers' reliance on Yamamoto's consistency and postseason dominance sets expectations for another championship push.