Dodgers' Yoshinobu Yamamoto's Unconventional Spring Training Warmups

"The right-hander is a workhorse, with no more proof needed than his Game 7 heroics of the 2025 World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays. He came into the game after pitching multiple high-leverage innings in the postseason and throughout the regular season, lacking any rest between his Game 6 start, and delivered three shutout innings to close out Game 7."

"Yamamoto, using his signature knee bend, gets his body loose while rotating his hips; his feet stay on the side as he holds a ball, much bigger than a baseball, as if he is preparing to throw a shotput. Eventually, he throws the ball without a full release and leg extension, seemingly getting his body moving and limbering up for his full pitching wind-up."

"In an interesting addition to his workout routine, Yamamoto was seen barefoot during spring training, holding two weighted balls and working on his balance and delivery, getting a different feeling from his legs. He steps on top of an elevated mound with a rubber on it and winds up for his full delivery, throwing at a higher effort level."

Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the Los Angeles Dodgers' starting pitcher, demonstrates exceptional work ethic and dedication to his craft. After delivering three shutout innings in Game 7 of the 2025 World Series despite minimal rest, he was among the first pitchers reporting to spring training for the 2026 season. Throughout February preparations for the World Baseball Classic and the upcoming season, Yamamoto employs distinctive on-field preparation methods. These include weighted ball throws using a knee bend to loosen his body and rotate his hips, barefoot balance work with dual weighted balls on an elevated mound, and javelin throws. These signature routines help him maintain physical synchronization and prepare for demanding postseason performances.

Read at Dodgers Nation