Yamamoto, Dodgers Show Complete Game in Opener With 3-Peat as Goal

World Series MVP Yamamoto sharp, as offense produces and bullpen shuts down Arizona in strong start for LA.
Yamamoto, Dodgers Show Complete Game in Opener With 3-Peat as Goal
Yoshinobu Yamamoto #18 of the Los Angeles Dodgers pitches during the fifth inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks during Opening Day at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on March 26, 2026. Ronald Martinez/Getty Images
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The pitcher who won the final two games of the World Series last year helped the Dodgers strongarm their way to victory No. 1 on Opening Day in Los Angeles, showing why L.A. is the heavy favorite to pull off a three-peat this season.

World Series MVP Yoshinobu Yamamoto misplaced one fastball, but was otherwise sharp over six innings, and the loaded offense wore down the Arizona arms to post an 8–2 victory over the Diamondbacks on Thursday night that christened the newly renamed UNIQLO Field at Dodger Stadium.

John E. Gibson
John E. Gibson
Author
John E. Gibson has covered pro baseball in Japan for about 20 years and brings great knowledge and insight across the sports spectrum. His experience includes stints at The Orange County Register, The Inland Valley Daily Bulletin, The Redlands Daily Facts and The Yomiuri Shimbun’s English newspaper in Tokyo.