MLB
What’s the latest on Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s return?
The Japanese pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers continues to recover from his injury on June 16, when he strained his rotator cuff.
![The Japanese pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers continues to recover from his injury on June 16, when he strained his rotator cuff.](https://img.asmedia.epimg.net/resizer/v2/ILZWMDL2WHXLSCJ7O77FNVR7HU.jpg?auth=528deaa4a924aadfd1badb732ef39c3ea9c03ca72d7ed1ae0be36e96ce68f943&width=360&height=203&smart=true)
The Los Angeles Dodgers are in first place in the NL West with a 74-52 record despite dealing with injuries to several players this season. One of the most significant has been that of Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the second pitcher in the rotation who has not played since June 16.
As long as the Los Angeles franchise continues its steady path to the postseason, it will not force the return of one of its best pitchers and will be patient with the Japanese. Yamamoto continues to recover from the rotator cuff injury that has prevented him from getting on the mound for more than a month, but his rehabilitation has been positive.
Dave Roberts Update
According to Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, Yoshinobu Yamamoto pitched in a simulated game at Busch Stadium last week. The Japanese native threw 17 pitches and is expected to return soon.
![Los Angeles Dodgers Yoshinobu Yamamoto watches the first inning of the Major League Baseball (MLB) game between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Los Angeles Dodgers in Los Angeles, California, USA, 07 August 2024.](https://img.asmedia.epimg.net/resizer/v2/H45YR4HGISQYOJYS3TC7LAEGFU.jpg?auth=e2f5c8c4771e00f1a88a9ca0f5a9c3772eccca2b3d552be8ce092f6a61ee0cf9&width=360)
Roberts added that Yamamoto will likely need two more practice sessions before joining the minor league affiliate for a rehab assignment.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto had an excellent season in his first year in the majors before his injury.
The rookie pitcher has a 6-2 record, a 2.92 ERA, and 84 strikeouts in 14 starts with the Dodgers. Based on Roberts’ positive comments, Yamamoto could return as early as September.