The Los Angeles Dodgers have been active in the MLB offseason, making significant moves to bolster their roster for the upcoming season. In December 2024, they signed Japanese pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto to a 12-year, $325 million contract, including a $50.625 million posting fee to his former team, the Orix Buffaloes. Yamamoto made his MLB debut on March 21, 2024, against the San Diego Padres in Seoul, South Korea, though he faced challenges, allowing five runs in one inning.
The Dodgers also secured left-handed pitcher Blake Snell, a two-time Cy Young Award winner, on a five-year, $182 million deal in November 2024. Snell is slated to start the Dodgers’ domestic opener against the Detroit Tigers on Thursday, with Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki following in the rotation.
However, the team is currently dealing with health concerns regarding star player Mookie Betts. Betts has been battling a mysterious illness that has led to a 25-pound weight loss, causing him to miss the season’s first three games. Despite normal test results, doctors have yet to determine the cause, and Betts is undergoing further evaluations. His absence has opened opportunities for players like Tommy Edman, Chris Taylor, and Miguel Rojas to step in.
These developments underscore the Dodgers’ commitment to strengthening their roster while navigating unforeseen challenges as they prepare for the new season.
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