In an impressive display of pitching dominance, Japanese sensation Yoshinobu Yamamoto delivered a no-hitter for the Orix Buffaloes, leaving quite an impression on the numerous Major League Baseball scouts that were in attendance on Saturday.
Yamamoto’s performance against the Lotte Marines solidified his reputation as one of the most promising talents in international baseball.
Yamamoto, a 25-year-old right-handed pitcher, demonstrated pinpoint control and ferocious speed, striking out eight batters, issuing only one walk, and hitting one batter in the Buffaloes 4-0 victory.
Future Met Yoshinobu Yamamoto pitched a no-no 🔥
And yes, NYM did have scouts in attendance #LGMÂ
pic.twitter.com/fGeoasA7wR— Tyler (@WardyNYM) September 9, 2023
This strong performance extended his remarkable scoreless streak to a ridiculous 42 innings. Throughout the season, he has maintained a stellar record, boasting a 14-5 win-loss record, a minuscule 1.26 ERA, and an impressive tally of 145 strikeouts with just 24 walks in 143 innings.
This marks Yamamoto’s second no-hitter, a feat that has garnered significant attention from major league teams, who are eagerly anticipating his potential posting in the upcoming offseason.
Brian Cashman called Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s no-hitter “fantastic”
He was then asked “so next year?” and responded “have a good day” pic.twitter.com/MiPQyPyph7
— Talkin' Yanks (@TalkinYanks) September 10, 2023
Yamamoto’s previous no-hitter came last year against the Seibu Lions, further solidifying his reputation as a pitcher of remarkable skill and consistency.
Adding to his list of accomplishments, Yamamoto played a pivotal role on Japan’s team earlier this year during their triumphant journey in the World Baseball Classic. In two starts and one relief appearance, he maintained a 1-0 record with a 2.45 ERA, striking out 12 batters and issuing only two walks in 7â…“ innings.
Masataka Yoshida spoke about the idea of Yoshinobu Yamamoto coming to the Red Sox:
“We’re close to each other… We’ve played (together) for a long time… If it happens that would be cool, that’s his baseball life, so I hope he’ll be well in any team he goes… I’m so excited to… pic.twitter.com/yG9u5leQ4p
— Tyler Milliken ⚾️ (@tylermilliken_) September 10, 2023
While Yamamoto may not yet have the necessary service time to become a free agent in Japan, MLB teams have taken notice of his undeniable talent and are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to secure his services through the posting system agreed upon by MLB and Nippon Professional Baseball.
Where do you rank Yamamoto among the top Japanese talent over the past several years?
What major league teams should go after him?