Dodgers' Yoshinobu Yamamoto heads to Japan for 2026 WBC debut March 6, pitching within team-guided limits.

Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto has completed spring training and is departing for Japan to lead Team Samurai in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, starting March 6 against Taiwan. Though he admitted to mental fatigue after a short offseason, Yamamoto says he’s physically ready and is expected to throw 60 pitches in his opening game, up to 75 later. The Dodgers confirmed pitch limits were discussed, with manager Dave Roberts emphasizing team alignment on the WBC schedule. Meanwhile, Brusdar Graterol remains sidelined after shoulder surgery, while Brock Stewart shows progress and Blake Snell continues slow rehab. The Dodgers also signed reliever Keynan Middleton to a minor-league deal, and utilityman Santiago Espinal is emerging as a strong roster candidate.