Why Yoshinobu Yamamoto should start first game of postseason for Dodgers

Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Why Yoshinobu Yamamoto should start first game of postseason for Dodgers

By Vanessa Serrao | Last updated Sep 16, 2026 3:53 PM ET

Right-handed starting pitcher and ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto is proving to the Los Angeles Dodgers that he deserves to start Game 1 of the postseason.

He tossed another gem on Sept. 15 with seven dominant innings, collecting his 14th victory of the season in a shutout of the Cincinnati Reds 4-0. He generated 16 whiffs and retired 21 of the last 22 batters he faced.

Blake Snell is also an intriguing option, but Yamamoto has been the definition of a workhorse this season.

He's continued to be one of the most consistent pitchers in MLB while demonstrating elite durability, recording 12 games pitching seven innings.

Yoshinobu Yamamoto fired seven more shutout innings yesterday.

Season (27 Starts)

179 Innings
2.51 ERA
0.87 WHIP
6% BB
26.1% K

Feel like he's the quietest ace in the game that doesn't get talked about enough.#Dodgers pic.twitter.com/LFcoR0FUDQ
— Eric Cross (@EricCrossMLB) September 16, 2026

Yoshinobu Yamamoto's proven track record and continued success makes him an elite Game one starter

Across 27 starts this season, he has pitched 170 innings with a dominant 2.51 ERA, 0.87 WHIP, 6% walk rate and 26.1% strikeout rate.

Additionally, his track record in last year's postseason highlights his candidacy to be the Game 1 starter.

In the Dodgers' 2025 postseason run, he boasted a 5-1 record with a 1.45 ERA and 33 strikeouts. His dominance earned him the World Series MVP award.

Last but certainly not least, he's gained praise from Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, who talked about what he brings to the table that's made him a huge weapon.

“What I've learned about him is that he has the ability to reset instantly mid game or mid inning," Roberts said after Tuesday's start. "He can shift gears and deliver exactly what's needed like a double play, strikeout, and or pop fly in clutch spots.”

Vanessa Serrao

Serrao is a freelance baseball writer who has covered all MLB teams, with particular expertise on the Toronto Blue Jays. She is a member of the Internet Baseball Writers Association of America.

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