Yoshinobu Yamamoto has finally made his decision. He is reportedly joining his fellow Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani in the City of Angeles and signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
That's certainly a groundbreaking move, which should only boost the Dodgers' World Series odds. After all, Yamamoto is considered one of the top free agents this 2023, and the Los Angeles franchise now got two of them.
The New York Yankees and New York Mets were among the contenders for Yamamoto, but in the end, the 25-year-old pitcher couldn't help but be allured with the prospect of playing alongside his countryman.
While that's good enough reason, the fact is the Dodgers aren't really the best destination for Yamamoto. In this article, we take a look at why he should have gone to the Yankees or Mets instead and not the Los Angeles franchise.
Read more: 3 Problems LA Dodgers Could Face in 2024 Despite Shohei Ohtani Signing
New York Mets
If it is a company that Yamamoto wants, the New York Mets had something to offer, too. The team currently has 2023 National League Rookie of the Year finalist Kodai Senga, who has known the fellow Japanese since he was 20 years old.
Senga even vouched for the brilliance of Yamamoto.
As for the Mets organization, they could have used someone like Yamamoto to reinvigorate their offense. Steve Cohen was ready to break the bank for him as well.
They had the most expensive roster last season but did not make the playoffs. Yamamoto could have been part of the special foundation the Mets are building together with Luisangel Acuña, Francisco Alvarez, and Ronny Mauricio.
New York Yankees
Lights shine the brightest in the Big Apple, and the New York Yankees could have been a viable free agency destination for Yamamoto if he really wanted to be in a team that is ready to contend.
The Yankees are expected to center their offense around new recruit Juan Soto and Aaron Judge. However, they need a reliable no. 2 for main pitcher Gerrit Cole.
Yamamoto could have played as backup for Cole, who is already in his 30s. As the foundation of the Yankees' future seasons, it would have been only a matter of time before Yamamoto takes over.
He would have been surrounded by quality players that can help him reach the next level.
The Yankees' squad has improved. They had the money to pay for the 25-year-old Japanese superstar. There was no reason for Yamamoto to not like being in the Big Apple.
How Good Is Yoshinobu Yamamoto
Yoshinobu Yamamoto definitely has the chops to play in the world's number-one professional baseball league. And most importantly, he got the wares to lead a big-market team.
He won the Japanese Triple Crown from 2021 to 2023, a feat only three players in the MLB have achieved. It is no surprise why plenty of clubs wanted his services. He is definitely the next big thing in baseball.
The Dodgers are certainly lucky to land him. But whether he thrives in LA and elevate his play further remains to be seen. Exciting times are ahead for baseball fans, even though many might find it unfair.
Related article: Who Is Mets and Dodgers' Target Yoshinobu Yamamoto; Why His Arrival Is as Hyped as Shohei Ohtani's?
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