Mets owner Steve Cohen and president of baseball operations David Stearns recently traveled to Japan, demonstrating their commitment to bringing top talent to New York.

Yamamoto, a 25-year-old right-hander, had an impressive season with the Orix Buffaloes of Japan's Pacific League, boasting a record of 16-6 with a remarkable 1.21 ERA. He displayed remarkable control on the mound, striking out 169 batters while walking just 28 in his 164 innings of play.

With Major League Baseball teams having until January 4th to make a move, the Mets and Yankees are leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of the talented pitcher. General manager Brian Cashman was even in attendance to witness Yamamoto's no-hitter against the Lotte Marines on September 9th.

While the Mets made the first move by meeting with Yamamoto and his family in Japan, the Yankees are scheduled to have their own meeting with the pitcher on Monday in California. The competition between the two New York teams is expected to be fierce, with both organizations presenting their vision and highlighting the appeal of playing for their respective franchises.

When asked about the competition, Cashman acknowledged the influence and commitment of Mets owner Steve Cohen but emphasized the Yankees' determination to secure Yamamoto's services. "We can just concentrate on what we're going to concentrate on. Obviously, it's a player of interest, and we'll compete for him and see where that takes us," said Cashman.

Yamamoto's track record in Japan speaks for itself, as he has accumulated an impressive 70-29 record with a stellar 1.82 ERA over seven seasons with the Orix Buffaloes. The right-hander also showcased his abilities on the big stage of the Japan Series, setting a record with 14 strikeouts during a pivotal Game 6 win over Hanshin.

Ultimately, Yamamoto's decision on where to sign will be a significant one for the young pitcher and his family. The Mets and Yankees are making every effort to provide him with all the necessary information to make the most informed decision regarding his future in Major League Baseball.

As the January 4th deadline fast approaches, fans of both teams eagerly await news on whether Yamamoto will choose to join the Mets or the Yankees, as the intense competition between the two New York rivals adds another layer of excitement to the offseason.

Note: The article is solely based on the provided information and may not reflect the latest developments in the pursuit of Yoshinobu Yamamoto.