Will Smith discussed Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s performance for the Los Angeles Dodgers at a press conference on October 7, 2026.
Smith, who caught for Yamamoto, said the pitcher navigated opposing hitters because “he kind of had all his pitches working,” while varying his speeds and locations. Smith added that Yamamoto attacked opposing hitters without fear and that “The game is just slower for him out there.” Smith also said he has gotten to know Yamamoto over the last few years.
Smith stated that Yamamoto got through seven innings after opposing hitters reached him in the fifth, saying “he kind of settled right back in” and continued executing his approach. Smith described the Dodgers’ offense as a full-team effort, saying they produced quality at-bats, used two home runs and “full team effort there grinding him out, getting him out after five innings” against the opposing pitcher.
On Kiké Hernández, Smith noted that preparation and fearlessness have supported his success in big October moments. “he’s more prepared than anybody,” Smith said, adding that Hernández executes his plan.
Smith explained that Edwin Díaz looks healthier and sharper after returning from the injured list and completing his rehabilitation process: “I think he’s just healthy. He feels good.” Smith said he guided Díaz through his first save in a while, and Díaz recovered from a difficult first batter after “he got punched right in the face the first batter, but, you know, got out of it.”