Kike Hernandez recalls “goosebump” moment during Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s epic World Series speech.

Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s historic World Series performance played a crucial role in the Dodgers' consecutive title win. He was named the WS MVP, but that wasn’t the only highlight for Dodgers teammate Kike Hernandez.

In a conversation with Dodgers Nation, Hernandez pointed out that the “goosebump” moment for him was during the World Series press conference. Before the meet, Yamamoto greeted the crowd in English, saying, “You know what? Losing isn’t an option."

“He (Yoshinobu Yamamoto) wins everywhere he goes. He won the WBC and like, the guy’s a winner. And like, that quote ‘losing isn’t an option,' when he said that sh*t in the press conference, I had goosebumps. 'Oh, baby, talk dirty to me.' I freaking love this sh*t,” Kike Hernandez said.

However, that wasn’t the first time Yamamoto reiterated his winning mindset. After throwing a complete game in Game 2 of the World Series, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts recalled the pitcher’s words before the Fall Classic.

“As he said before the series, losing is not an option. And he had that look tonight."

Roberts highly praised Yamamoto, saying it’s in his DNA to shine in the WS spotlight as he represented Japan in the World Baseball Classic. He became the first player since Curt Schilling in 2001 to throw two consecutive complete games in the postseason.

The $325 million pitcher recorded eight strikeouts, allowed 4 hits, and an earned run. Roberts said that he could have thrown another “30-40 pitches” in Game 2 if required.

Kike Hernandez will miss out on the WBC after elbow surgery

Kike Hernandez, in an Instagram post, noted that he won’t be able to participate in the upcoming WBC after his left elbow surgery.

His elbow injury had been an issue in 2025, as he got sidelined in July after playing for a month with his injury. This limited him to 93 games this season.

"I played [until], basically, I felt like I couldn't even hold the bat anymore. And I mean, it was kind of dumb on my end. But I've always felt that if I feel like I could play, I'm not going to go on the IL. By the time we went in for the MRI, it was a little too late."

He said that continuing his game in that state broke his bone. His condition led to immediate surgery, and the current rehabilitation date might exceed the WBC timetable.

“Rehab won't allow me to be ready in time to put on my uniform with Puerto Rico on my chest. I hope they understand. I LOVE THEM!”

In 2025, he recorded 10 home runs, 35 RBIs, and batted .203. Despite his injury, he became one of the key players to help the team retain the World Series.