Yoshinobu Yamamoto Injury Update: Dodgers pitcher close to returning to the team after completing bullpen session, says manager Dave Roberts

Yoshinobu Yamamoto is closing in on his return. The Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher continues to recover from the rotator cuff strain on his right arm, which has kept him out of action for two months.

As per Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic, manager Dave Roberts gave an update on Yamamoto's rehab progress, which included a bullpen session.

On June 15 against the Kansas City Royals, Yoshinobu Yamamoto was taken out of the game due to tightness in his right triceps after pitching just two innings. He was placed on the injured list the following day, although he was expected to make a fairly swift comeback. However, the issue has kept him out for much longer, and he was placed on the 60-day IL on July 13.

Playing in his rookie season in the MLB, Yoshinobu Yamamoto signed a $325 million deal for 12 years with the Dodgers, the largest-ever contract offered to a pitcher.

After a shocking debut that lasted only one inning, Yamamoto quickly established himself as one of the most efficient performers on the mound. He presently holds a 6-2 record with a 2.92 ERA and 1.068 WHIP.

Dodgers expect Yoshinobu Yamamoto to be ready for postseason

Yoshinobu Yamamoto could return to the Dodgers rotation by the end of the month (Photo Credit: IMAGN)

At the moment, the Los Angeles Dodgers feel Yoshinobu Yamamoto is moving in the right direction towards a full recovery. If he continues to progress in the same manner, Yamamoto could return to the Dodgers by the end of August or even early September, as he is reportedly keen to get back on the mound for his team.

That will leave Yamamoto with about one month to prepare for the postseason. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts believes the Japanese star will be able to pitch for five to six innings by that time.

“Yeah, I think so,” Roberts said. “I think that’s also assuming that it all goes great, but the way that Yoshinobu is feeling, I see no reason why we couldn’t.”

However, Yoshinobu Yamamoto will first need to do well in the live BP session with the team on Friday, which would probably lead to a rehab assignment. Yamamoto could be handed a few outings in the minor leagues to get up to speed before he takes the mound for the Dodgers.