Yoshinobu Yamamoto or Blake Snell? Top Reasons the Giants Should Pick the Japanese Ace

The San Francisco Giants are as much linked to Yoshinobu Yamamoto as with the 2x Cy Young winner Blake Snell this offseason. While 2024 would be Yamamoto’s first season in MLB, Snell is already a veteran. Though Giants had one of the best pitching stats in 2023, they’re nonetheless looking to strengthen their starting rotation. But who will be the pitcher who can benefit them more in the long run?

Both of these pitchers are successful aces in their own way and would be a massive plus for any team. At least for the Giants, it seems that Yamamoto could be just a little more suitable. The Samurai Japan ace could prove to be a game-changer for the former World Series champions.

Why Yoshinobu Yamamoto could be a better choice for the San Francisco Giants

With both Yamamoto and Snell looking for a $200 million contract, it becomes a question of utility. Who would suit the team’s structure and style more naturally? This is where the PL MVP could prove to be ahead, according to the Around The Foghorn.

The biggest difference between the two happens to be their age. The Japanese star will be 25 years old during the 2024 season while Snell will be 31. Yamamoto can provide a longer peak to the Giants. Whereas Snell would need a shorter contract while Yamamoto can accept more years.

Another strong point is durability. Snell has rarely pitched for more than 6 innings in his career. He has consistently been protected from the third turn. Yamamoto, on the contrary, loves to go deep while pitching. Famously pitching an entire game in the Japan Series.

Suitability is another parameter. The Bay Bombers’ whole method is to constantly hit the strike zone. Here Snell would not be of much help as he loves to spread out his pitches. Yamamoto is consistent in hitting the strike zone. He has a BB of 2.1/9 across his entire NPB career. He rarely makes a hitter walk.

However, would Yamamoto prefer the Giants? There could be an enormous advantage for him if he plays for them.

The huge selling point of the Bay Bombers

The Oracle Park is one of the toughest fields for hitters. It is a pitching heaven due to a variety of conditions. While this could have pushed the Giants out of the Shohei Ohtani race, it could be a big attraction for Yamamoto. 

Another attractive aspect of Giants is their strong rotational lineup. This would give Yamamoto the required rest between his games without much pressure. This could become a huge motivation for him as well.

Whatever the case, the Bay Bombers would want to finally be successful in a major free-agent pursuit.

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