Red Sox outpace Yankees with early lead in Yamamoto pursuit

Thursday November 23, 2023

Japanese sensation Yoshinobu Yamamoto stands as one of the most coveted starting pitchers in the upcoming 2024 free agency class, rivaling even Shohei Ohtani. The 25-year-old has clinched three consecutive Sawamura Awards, the NPB’s equivalent of the Cy Young.

Acquiring Yamamoto would mark a crucial step in the much-needed overhaul of the Red Sox’s pitching rotation. After fielding one of the weakest rotations in baseball last season, adding a bona fide ace like the Japanese pitcher could bring about a significant turnaround in 2024. Beyond the immediate impact, his youth suggests that he would remain in or just beyond his prime when his potential long-term contract concludes.

Despite Boston’s earnest desire for this skilled right-hander, numerous other high-profile teams are anticipated to vie for his services. With a contract projection exceeding $200 million, Yamamoto might opt for another eager suitor over Boston. While the New York Yankees initially posed as formidable contenders, the latest developments could potentially alter the landscape, either ruling them out of contention or giving the Red Sox an advantageous position in the early stages of negotiations.

Red Sox edge Yankees in head start toward Yamamoto

Yoshinobu-Yamamoto — instagram-yoshinobu__yamamoto

While many Japanese players typically prefer teams without fellow countrymen, Yamamoto expresses a willingness to team up with a Japanese player. This news may not bode well for the Yankees, lacking Japanese players in their current roster. In contrast, the Red Sox have Masataka Yoshida, enhancing their appeal to Yamamoto.

Yoshida, who recently signed a five-year deal with Boston, showcased impressive offensive skills in his debut season. His sixth-place finish in the AL Rookie of the Year balloting solidified his presence in Beantown. Yoshida, appreciating Red Sox fans and expressing his enjoyment of playing at Fenway Park, could play a role in recruiting Yamamoto to join him in the same ballpark.

While Shohei Ohtani remains the top priority, Yamamoto shouldn’t be overlooked. The Red Sox have a pressing need for an ace, and securing a 25-year-old pitcher aligns with their goals. This move would not only bolster the pitching staff but also endear Craig Breslow to the Red Sox fanbase. Snatching the Japanese sensation from the Yankees would be an additional triumph for the team.

What do you think? Leave your comment below.