Here’s a bold statement: MLB.com’s latest Dodgers superstar rankings have once again overlooked the brilliance of Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and it’s a snub that’s hard to ignore. But here’s where it gets controversial... With the addition of Kyle Tucker and Edwin Díaz, the Dodgers now boast an astonishing 13 All-Stars on their roster—a lineup so stacked it’s practically half their active team. That’s not just talent; that’s a financial powerhouse worth millions upon millions. MLB.com took on the daunting task of ranking all 13, and while some placements are undeniably spot-on (Shohei Ohtani at No. 1 and Blake Treinen at No. 13? Fair enough), it’s the middle ground that raises eyebrows.
And this is the part most people miss... Kyle Tucker at No. 2 and Yoshinobu Yamamoto at No. 3? Really? Let’s break this down. Tucker is undoubtedly a powerhouse, but is he truly a better position player than Yamamoto is a pitcher? After Yamamoto’s jaw-dropping performance in the NLCS, World Series, and regular season—including a near no-hitter and a bullpen-saving World Series appearance—it’s hard to make that case. Yamamoto didn’t just pitch; he became the heartbeat of the team, the only starting pitcher to stay healthy all season on a roster plagued by injuries. That’s not just valuable—that’s irreplaceable.
Comparing pitchers and position players is like comparing apples to oranges, sure. Tucker plays every day, while Yamamoto operates on a five- or six-day schedule. But Yamamoto defied convention last season, pitching 24 innings over three postseason starts and then closing out the World Series the very next day. He didn’t just perform; he redefined what’s possible. So, why does it feel like MLB.com’s Will Leitch is sleeping on him? Could it be the allure of Tucker’s massive contract, which makes Yamamoto’s $325 million deal look like a steal? If Tucker stays in LA for four years, he’ll earn nearly three-fourths of what Yamamoto will make in 12. But money doesn’t measure impact—and Yamamoto’s impact is undeniable.
Here’s the real question: Is Yamamoto’s consistency, durability, and postseason heroics truly less valuable than Tucker’s everyday presence? We’re not saying Tucker isn’t a superstar, but Yamamoto deserves more than a mere No. 3 ranking. He’s the Dodgers’ ace, their unsung hero, and the player who kept their season alive when it mattered most. So, let’s spark some debate: Are we overreacting, or is this another case of Yamamoto being overlooked? Sound off in the comments—we want to hear your take!
