Dodgers Officials Feel This Factor Could Help Their Chances Landing Yoshinobu Yamamoto This Winter

Fan turn player?

The Los Angeles Dodgers aren't done making moves this off-season, Dodger fans. In fact, they are just getting started. The addition of Shohei Ohtani changed the entire aspect of the team in many different ways. Although that is a massive addition, the Boys in Blue still have a ton of work to do to play deep in October. 

The front office will remain aggressive by trying to add Japanese pitching sensation Yoshinobu Yamamoto. It's clear Yamamoto likes what the Dodgers have been doing, as he has LA in the top three of his list. We could find out very soon where he lands, and Dodger officials believe it could be in Southern California. 

According to Dodgers insider for The Athletic, Fabian Ardaya, team officials believe they can land the 25-year-old stud because of his team fandom. 

“Dodgers officials feel that Yamamoto growing up a Dodgers fan could boost the club’s odds should they be able to reach such a high number.”

(per Fabian Ardaya via The Athletic)

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said he has not met with Yamamoto, but the team is still confident about their chances. 

The competition is fierce for the 25-year-old's talent, and we'll see if the Dodgers can strike gold once again. According to Fox Sports, the Dodgers have the third-best odds to sign Yamamoto with +450 odds. The Mets are the favorites with +220 odds, followed by the Yankees with +400 odds. 

Could Yamamoto want to play for the team he's rooted for as a youngster? We will find out soon enough, as he has until January 4th to sign with an MLB team.