Yoshinobu Yamamoto's rumored girlfriend is Japanese model and Netflix star

Los Angeles Dodgers ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto, rumored to be dating Japanese model Niki Nawa after being spotted together last year, will get the ball in Game 6 of the World Series

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With their backs against the wall, the Los Angeles Dodgers will turn to ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto against the Toronto Blue Jays in Game 6 of the 2025 World Series on Friday. The Japanese right-hander was masterful in Game 2, pitching a complete game while allowing just a single run.

While Yamamoto's official relationship status is unknown, he is rumored to be dating Japanese actor and Netflix star Niki Niwa. The 28-year-old was filmed in a TikTok with the Dodgers ace last year, and the pair were also spotted shopping together at a Beverley Hills mall in 2024.

Yamamoto signed a 12-year, $325 million contract with Los Angeles ahead of the 2024 season and has lived up to the hype.

The 2025 All-Star finished the season with a 12-8 record while recording a 2.49 ERA with 201 strikeouts across 173.2 innings. Those numbers have improved in the playoffs: in 28.2 innings, Yamamoto has struck out 26 batters with a 1.57 ERA.

Niki Nawa

The 28-year-old model and actress gained fame in Japan after starring in the Netflix reality show "Terrace House: Aloha State." She parlayed that gig into a starring role on the romantic drama "Peanut Butter Sandwich."

She has modeled for a range of internationally recognized brand-name companies. Nawa boasts nearly 800,000 followers, although she has yet to post a picture of Yamamoto.

What the Dodgers are saying

Members of the Dodgers were stunned after Yamamoto's Game 2 showing. "It's four or five pitches, and it feels like he could hit a flea with it," first baseman Freddie Freeman said. "He can throw it wherever he wants. Sets up hitters. Understands hitters' swings. He's just incredible."

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Manager Dave Roberts agreed. "He said before the Series, 'Losing is not an option,'" he remembered. "And he had that look tonight."

Pitching coach Mark Prior hailed his process. "The process of him reading and reacting each inning, trying to get an idea of what they're trying to do."

"And then just trying to pivot and counter with his stuff and his arsenal -- he's in a very good spot right now," Prior said. "He feels very good with everything that he's doing."

Roberts emphasized that Yamamoto is ready for the moment tonight. -“He’s pitched in huge ballgames in Japan,” he said. “He’s pitched in the WBC. Players that have the weight of a country on their shoulders – that’s pressure.”