Dodgers Interview: Yamamoto Reflects on Command, Run Support, and the Heated Dodgers-Padres Rivalry
"Overall, I think it was an improvement.”
LOS ANGELES — After pitching 6.1 innings in Thursday night’s 5–3 loss to the Padres, Dodgers right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto spoke to reporters about his performance, his continued adjustments to big league hitters, and the emotional atmosphere of facing a division rival like San Diego.
Yamamoto allowed three earned runs on seven hits while striking out five. While not his sharpest outing of the season, he showed clear progress from his previous start, where he struggled with command and issued multiple walks. Reflecting on the difference, he said, “Compared to my last outing, I think there were a lot more good pitches today. Of course, I gave up the first run and there are things I need to reflect on, but overall, I think it was an improvement.”
The Dodgers once again failed to give Yamamoto much run support while he was in the game, continuing a trend that has followed him in several of his starts this season. Asked if that lack of offensive backing changes his mindset on the mound, Yamamoto was direct: “No, it doesn’t really change how I approach pitching. I don’t let that affect what I’m trying to do out there. My focus stays the same regardless of the score.”
This start came in the middle of a tense four-game set against the Padres—one filled with emotions, physical confrontations, and playoff-like intensity. Yamamoto acknowledged that games against San Diego carry a different weight. “Even last time we played the Padres, it felt the same. There’s a unique atmosphere—it’s different from other games,” he said. “It’s what you might call a hot game. You definitely feel the energy and tension in a matchup like this.”
Although some fans and analysts debate whether Dodgers–Padres is a “true” rivalry, Yamamoto acknowledged the quality of both clubs and the heightened atmosphere when they meet. “I don’t really know,” he said, smiling. “They’re both really good teams. It’s hard to say, but yeah… it does feel a little different.”
The 25-year-old right-hander continues to settle into his role as the Dodgers’ ace, and while the team hasn’t always given him big run cushions, his calm presence and commitment to refinement haven’t wavered. After a couple of shaky starts in a row, Thursday’s outing was a step in the right direction—even if it came in a loss.
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