In a surprising turn of events, the Los Angeles Dodgers have placed right-handed pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto on the 15-day injured list due to a strained rotator cuff. The injury was initially reported as triceps tightness, but further testing revealed the true extent of the damage.
Yamamoto, who signed a record-breaking $325 million contract with the Dodgers prior to this season, has been impressive in his first year in Major League Baseball. He currently holds a 2.92 ERA and 3.12 xERA in 14 starts, striking out 84 batters and walking only 17 in 74 innings.
The injury occurred during Yamamoto's previous start against the Kansas City Royals on June 16, where he lasted just two innings. He had felt tightness in his triceps for most of the game but was able to push through it until the pain became too severe.
The Dodgers also placed right-handed pitcher Michael Grove on the injured list with a right intercostal strain. In corresponding moves, they recalled J.P. Feyereisen and selected Michael Petersen from Triple-A Oklahoma City to fill their roster spots.
Yamamoto's injury is not expected to be season-ending, but he will need some time to rest and recover before returning to the mound. The Dodgers currently have a five-man starting rotation, with Clayton Kershaw set to make his first rehab start this week.
This marks the seventh Dodgers pitcher to land on the injured list since the start of the season. In total, 14 Dodgers pitchers have been placed on the IL at any point this year.
Yamamoto was originally coveted by multiple teams during free agency, including the New York Yankees who offered him a 10-year deal worth $300 million. However, Yamamoto ultimately chose to sign with the Dodgers for a 12-year contract worth $325 million.
Despite his impressive performance this season, Yamamoto's injury is a significant blow to the Dodgers pitching staff. Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring his progress as he works towards a return.
