In the high-stakes world of MLB, the New York Yankees' pursuit of Yoshinobu Yamamoto was like a blockbuster movie with an unexpected twist. Manager Aaron Boone and the Yankees brass had their eyes set on the Japanese sensation, hoping to add his formidable pitching skills to their roster. They even met with Yamamoto and his agent in a swanky Hollywood Hills mansion and again in Manhattan, laying out the red carpet for the right-hander.
Boone was clearly impressed by Yamamoto's aura, describing him as a "special dude" with a presence that's both confident and humble. The Yankees pulled out all the stops, involving Hideki Matsui in their pitch and even gifting Yamamoto his preferred No. 18 jersey.
However, in a turn of events, Yamamoto decided to join the Los Angeles Dodgers with a 12-year, $325 million contract, despite the Yankees' hefty $300 million offer. The Yankees had scouted Yamamoto for over a year, captivated by his performances, including a no-hitter for the Orix Buffaloes. Now, the Yankees have to pivot to other options like Jordan Montgomery, Frankie Montas, Corbin Burnes, or Shota Imanaga.
Boone admired Yamamoto's dedication to his craft, comparing it to that of Gerrit Cole. Despite the disappointment, the Yankees will get to witness Yamamoto's skills firsthand when the Dodgers visit Yankee Stadium for a series in June.
In a high-stakes game of cat and mouse, with the Yankees left at the altar. They wanted a star, rolled out the red carpet, but in the end, it wasn't enough. Yamamoto chose the bright lights of L.A. over the Big Apple.