By Gregory Shamus | Nov. 2, 2025
Yoshinobu Yamamoto was hoisted into the air by teammate Will Smith after the Los Angeles Dodgers secured the World Series title with a victory over the Toronto Blue Jays on Saturday.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts praised Yamamoto’s grit and durability, calling attention to the Japanese ace’s ability to deliver under pressure. Roberts said the performance exemplified the kind of toughness that defines championship teams.
Yamamoto turned in a gutsy, game-sealing outing that helped close out the series. Teammates and fans alike were visibly moved as the club celebrated the pitching performance that clinched the championship.
The image of Yamamoto being carried by Smith quickly became a lasting snapshot of the Dodgers’ triumph and of the rookie’s immediate impact on the franchise.