Could Allied battleships have dealt with Yamato and perhaps captured her?
Short answerThey could have fought her if she passed the carriers, but capture was implausible and the attack would use every available surface and air asset.
NotesCapture is unrealistic because the Japanese would destroy the ship before surrendering her. A surface engagement becomes possible only if Yamato passes the carrier strikes, perhaps at night or with additional Japanese ships dividing Allied attention. The American response would combine available standard battleships with cruisers and destroyers rather than seek a one-on-one contest. British night-strike aviation in the area would add another route to attacking a ship that broke through.