Yoshinobu Yamamoto said on October 5, 2026, that he will maintain his usual approach and focus on winning despite the importance of the postseason game.
“I will do my best to win,” Yamamoto said. He noted that he does not change his approach based on the opposing pitcher: “I don't really change my approach based on who the opposing pitcher is.” Yamamoto also said his loss to Chris Sale was frustrating, while adding, “Losing was definitely frustrating, and I remember it, but tomorrow is a new game.”
Yamamoto stated that the 1-1 situation made the game important for momentum: “This will be an important game that heavily influences the momentum.” He said he had faced the Atlanta Braves three times at the stadium, with an ERA of 0.55 and a WHIP of 1.58, and attributed his results there to being in good form: “I think I was probably in good form.” He also said he threw approximately 70 pitches in the practice game, noting, “Around 70 pitches, I think.”
Yamamoto explained that he treats regular-season games and important October games with the same basic mindset, although tension naturally changes in major games: “I try my best to play like I always do, even in those moments.” He added that he is prepared and ready: “Regardless, I am prepared. Yes. I am ready.”
Yamamoto said he frequently talks about baseball with Shohei Ohtani because their lockers are close, and that he receives batting-perspective and psychological advice from Ohtani: “I received a lot of advice from Ohtani-san.” He described their conversations as casual, saying, “We talk a lot in a casual way,” and said their first direct discussion about facing each other came within those frequent conversations.
Yamamoto said this is his third postseason and that he won the World Series MVP in the 2025 season. He will carry his stated focus on his usual approach and winning into the important game.