The Los Angeles Dodgers clinched the World Series title on Saturday night, thanks largely to the exceptional performance of pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Yamamoto secured his third win of the World Series by entering Game 7 in relief. He worked two-plus innings after starting in Game 6, making back-to-back World Series appearances with no rest between the games — a feat rarely seen in baseball history.
Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw praised Yamamoto’s remarkable effort, calling it one of the craziest things any baseball fan may ever witness. “I don’t think you’ll ever see somebody do what Yama did tonight,” Kershaw told ESPN. “That was probably the most gutsy, ballsy thing any guy has ever done.” Kershaw, who is set to retire after this World Series victory, expressed deep admiration for his teammate’s resilience and determination.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts echoed those sentiments, expressing awe at Yamamoto’s performance. “It’s unheard of,” Roberts said. “I think there’s a mind component, a flawless delivery, and just an unwavering will. I just haven’t seen it. I really haven’t.”
This win marks the Dodgers’ second consecutive World Series championship. In 2024, Los Angeles defeated the New York Yankees, and this season they overcame the Toronto Blue Jays to claim the title once again.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto was named MVP for the Dodgers during this Fall Classic. He dominated in Game 2 by pitching a complete game that helped even the series. Then, when the Dodgers were down 3-2 in the series, Yamamoto once again rose to the occasion and bailed out his team.
“His stuff was as good tonight as it was last night, which is absolutely mind-blowing,” said Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman.
Yamamoto received crucial run support when Will Smith hit a tie-breaking home run in the 11th inning of Game 7. The Dodgers then recorded three outs in the bottom of the 11th to secure the championship.
The moment was especially emotional for veteran Clayton Kershaw. “Hard to put into words, honestly,” Kershaw said. “I’m just so grateful.”
Looking ahead, the Dodgers aim to continue their dominance and will be targeting a third consecutive World Series title in 2026.
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