Yoshinobu Yamamoto Poised for NL Cy Young in 2026 Predictions

The 2026 MLB season is still months away, but writers are already making bold predictions about award winners. Among them, Anthony Castrovince of MLB.com has singled out Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto as his pick for the National League Cy Young Award.

Castrovince acknowledges that reigning winner Paul Skenes remains a formidable force, with an ERA of 1.96 over the 2024–25 seasons—the best in MLB by a significant margin. Still, Castrovince points to Yamamoto’s preparation, consistency, and postseason heroics as compelling reasons to favor him for the award next year.

Yamamoto’s performance during the Dodgers’ 2025 World Series run was remarkable. He threw 17.2 innings across seven games against the Toronto Blue Jays, helping Los Angeles secure its third championship in five seasons while demonstrating durability and poise in high-pressure situations.

At 27, Yamamoto has emerged as one of the league’s most reliable starters. His 2025 statistics—2.49 ERA, 0.990 WHIP, and 201 strikeouts in 173.2 innings—solidify his standing as a legitimate Cy Young contender alongside elite pitchers like Skenes and Seattle’s Paul Skubal.

1. Yamamoto’s 2025 Performance

Yamamoto finished 2025 as one of the National League’s most consistent and effective pitchers. His 2.49 ERA ranked among the top in MLB, reflecting both his command and ability to limit runs in high-leverage situations. Over 173.2 innings, he recorded 201 strikeouts, demonstrating strikeout ability without relying on sheer velocity alone. His 0.990 WHIP further underscores his control and consistency, allowing minimal baserunners throughout the season. Beyond numbers, Yamamoto excelled in postseason play. Pitching nearly 18 innings in just seven World Series appearances against Toronto, he provided both innings and quality performances when the Dodgers needed them most. His durability and composure were pivotal in Los Angeles’ championship run. The combination of regular-season excellence and postseason resilience positions Yamamoto as a strong candidate for recognition in 2026, especially given his ability to maintain peak performance over multiple seasons.

2. Cy Young Considerations and Competition

While Yamamoto is a strong candidate, Paul Skenes remains a dominant presence in the Cy Young conversation. Skenes’ 1.96 ERA across 2024–25 sets a high bar, though innings limits and team rotation management could factor into the vote. Castrovince notes that the Dodgers’ deep rotation allows for “load management,” which may limit Yamamoto’s innings slightly but also preserves his effectiveness over a full season. His preparation and adaptability, however, suggest he can overcome any innings-related challenges. Yamamoto’s expected ERA in 2025 was 2.74, trailing only Skenes (2.63) and Skubal (2.71). This metric highlights his consistency and ability to perform at an elite level, making him a realistic pick for the NL Cy Young despite strong competition. Ultimately, voters will weigh postseason performance, durability, and consistency, and Yamamoto has already demonstrated all three. His continued development in Los Angeles positions him as a front-runner for 2026 accolades.

3. Looking Ahead

As the 2026 season approaches, Yamamoto is expected to remain among MLB’s elite starters. The Dodgers’ championship pedigree, combined with his individual skill set, gives him a strong platform to compete for awards. Beyond Cy Young considerations, his presence in the rotation ensures Los Angeles remains a contender in the NL West, with a reliable ace anchoring a deep pitching staff. Yamamoto’s ability to adapt and maintain peak performance will be key for the Dodgers’ ongoing success. For fans and analysts, he represents both consistency and postseason toughness—a rare combination in today’s game. If he builds on his 2025 dominance, he could firmly establish himself as one of the National League’s premier pitchers for years to come.