Yoshinobu Yamamoto's participation in the World Baseball Classic remains uncertain, Dodgers' manager reveals potential pitching opportunities.

During the interview on "Shinichi Hatori Morning Show," Dodgers manager Dave Roberts addressed questions about whether the two Japanese ace pitchers, Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki, would compete in the World Baseball Classic (WBC) next March. Roberts clearly stated that it would be quite challenging for both to reach game-ready condition before the tournament, leaving their participation uncertain.

Currently, Shohei Ohtani has already confirmed last month that he will don the Japanese uniform again, but the status of Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki remains undecided.

Roberts pointed out during the show that Roki Sasaki has just returned from a right shoulder injury and missed much of the regular season due to this. Although he performed well as a reliever late in the season, the team plans to have him back in the starting rotation next year. Therefore, Roberts believes "preparing his body early for the rigorous demands of starting pitching is not easy," and frankly admitted, "I’d be surprised if Sasaki pitches in the WBC."

Regarding the newly crowned World Series MVP Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Roberts also expressed caution. He noted that considering the heavy workload Yamamoto has endured over the past two seasons—including intense pitching in the playoffs and World Series—maintaining peak performance without sufficient rest would be difficult. Hence, he admitted, "It’s also tough for him to get ready in time for the WBC."

However, Roberts did not completely rule out the possibility of both pitchers participating. He added that if Japan advances to the later stages of the tournament, "Yamamoto might get the chance to pitch in one or two games." Still, he emphasized that the Dodgers’ top priority is to keep their players healthy to enter the new season in the best condition and to fully pursue their goal of a three-peat championship.

It is reported that Yamamoto himself acknowledged after the season that he still feels fatigued and needs time to recover. He plans to carefully assess his physical condition along with the team's priorities for the upcoming season before making a cautious decision.