Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) is the highest level of professional baseball in Japan. Established in 1934, NPB is a league of 12 teams playing a 143-game regular season schedule, with the champions of the Pacific League and Central League playing in the Japan Series.
NPB is known for its high level of competition, traditional rivalries, and passionate fans. It is also home to some of the greatest players to ever take the field, including Ichiro Suzuki, Hideki Matsui, and Daisuke Matsuzaka. From the opening pitch of the season to the dramatic conclusion of the Japan Series, NPB is a thrilling experience for both players and spectators alike.
1. Shohei Ohtani
Pitcher
Career
- NPB, Japan Series champion (2016), 5× NPB All-Star (2013–2017), Pacific League MVP (2016), 2× Pacific League Pitcher Best Nine (2015–2016), Designated Hitter Best Nine (2016), Pacific League ERA leader (2015), Pacific League Battery Award, with Shota Ono (2015), 2× Japan Professional Sports Grand Prize (2016, 2018), WBSC Player of the Year (2015)[1], MLB, 2× All-Star (2021, 2022)[a], AL MVP (2021), 2x All-MLB First Team (2021,[b] 2022[c]), 2x All-MLB Second Team (2021,[d] 2022[e]), AL Rookie of the Year (2018), Silver Slugger Award (2021), 2× Edgar Martínez Award (2021, 2022), AL triples leader (2021), Commissioner's Historic Achievement Award (2021), Hit for the cycle on June 13, 2019, AP Athlete of the Year (2021)
Ohtani is a two-way player who has spent most of his career as a pitcher but can also hit. He was the first player in history to be drafted twice by MLB teams, and he made his debut with the Los Angeles Angels in 2018.
In 2017, Ohtani led NPB in batting average (.332) and home runs (49). Ohtani has been compared to Japanese baseball star Yūki Matsui because of their unique skillset as pitchers and hitters.
Shohei Ohtani is a Japanese-born pitcher and first baseman who has played for the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters in Japan and the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in the United States.
He was named an All-Star for both teams, and he won Rookie of the Year honors with the Angels in 2018. In 2019, Ohtani became only the second player ever to win both MVP and Cy Young Awards in his rookie season (the other being Sandy Koufax).
Ohtani is one of only six players ever to pitch at least 200 innings with at least 30 home runs, 100 RBIs, 50 walks and 20 strikeouts - joining Nolan Ryan (five times), Randy Johnson (twice), Roger Clemens (once), Babe Ruth (multiple times) and Mickey Mantle.
Ohtani also holds MLB records for most hits by a pitcher without homers allowed during his debut season - 139 - as well as becoming just the third batter after Ty Cobb and Hank Aaron to record more than 500 singles over their career while playing exclusively DH duty.
Also Played For: los angeles angels, mlb utility
2. Ichiro Suzuki
Right fielder
Career
- NPB, 7× All-Star (1994–2000), Japan Series champion (1996), 3× Pacific League MVP (1994–1996), 7× Golden Glove Award (1994–2000), 7× Best Nine Award (1994–2000), 2× Matsutaro Shoriki Award (1994, 1995), 7× Pacific League batting champion (1994–2000), Pacific League RBI leader (1995), Pacific League stolen base leader (1995), , MLB, , 10× All-Star (2001–2010), AL MVP (2001), AL Rookie of the Year (2001), 10× Gold Glove Award (2001–2010), 3× Silver Slugger Award (2001, 2007, 2009), 2× AL batting champion (2001, 2004), AL stolen base leader (2001), MLB record 262 hits, single season, Seattle Mariners Hall of Fame
Ichiro Suzuki is a retired Japanese professional baseball outfielder. He played for the Seattle Mariners from 2001 to 2019, and was a five-time All-Star.
Ichiro was born on October 22nd, 1973 in Nishikasugai-gun, Aichi Prefecture, Japan. After playing high school baseball in his home country, Ichiro signed with the Orix BlueWave of NPB in 1992 and made an immediate impact as one of the league's most exciting young players.
In 2001, Ichiro was traded to the Seattle Mariners and enjoyed some of his greatest success with them; he won 5 consecutive AL MVP Awards (2006–10) and 3 World Series titles (2005–07).
Following his retirement from MLB at age 41 in 2019 after 18 seasons with 9 different teams (including 2 stints with the Yokohama BayStars).
Lchiro has since been appointed ambassador for Major League Baseball in Japan - a highly significant role given that he is still considered one of the game's most popular players across both continents.
Also Played For: florida marlins, seattle mariners
3. Seiya Suzuki
Outfielder
Career
- NPB, 5× Central League Golden Glove Award (2016, 2017, 2019–2021), 6× Best Nine Award (2016–2021), 5× NPB All-Star (2016–2019, 2021), 2× Central League Batting Champion (2019, 2021), 2× Central League OBP Leader (2019, 2021)
Seiya Suzuki made his professional debut in 2013 with the Hiroshima Toyo Carp. He has since played in the MLB for the Chicago Cubs. Suzuki has been a consistent hitter in Japan, batting over .300 in every season since his debut.
Suzuki has also hit over 200 home runs in his career. He is a versatile outfielder who can play both in the outfield and at first base. Suzuki is a young player with a lot of potential, and he is sure to continue to improve in the future.
Seiya Suzuki is a Japanese first baseman who plays for Hiroshima Toyo Carp in the Japanese Central League.
Suzuki has spent his entire career with the Toyo Carp, where he has been a consistent contributor at the plate. Suzuki has won several awards throughout his career, including two Central League batting championships.
Suzuki is a three-time All-Star and has been a member of the Japan national team.
Also Played For: hiroshima toyo carp
4. Yu Darvish
Pitcher
Career
- NPB, 2× Pacific League MVP (2007, 2009), Eiji Sawamura Award (2007), Japan Series champion (2006), 3× Pacific League strikeout title (2007, 2010, 2011), 2× Pacific League ERA title (2009, 2010), 2× Pacific League Best Nine Award (2007, 2009), 2× Pacific League Mitsui Golden Glove Award (2007, 2008), 2006 Asia Series MVP, 5× NPB All-Star (2007–2011), 2007 PLCS Second Stage MVP, MLB, 5× All-Star (2012–2014, 2017, 2021), All-MLB First Team (2020), NL wins leader (2020), AL strikeout leader (2013)
Yu Darvish is a Japanese-born pitcher who has spent most of his career in the MLB. He has a 93-38 record and a 1.99 ERA. Darvish was drafted by the Texas Rangers in 2012 and made his MLB debut the following year.
He was a key part of the Rangers' championship-winning team in 2015. Darvish has a reputation as one of the best pitchers in baseball, and is widely considered to be one of the best ever to play the game.
Darvish has been a part of two Japanese teams, the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters and the Tokyo Yakult Swallows, and has won a championship with each.
Darvish is married and has two children. Darvish was an All-Star selection in both of his seasons with the Rangers, and finished as the runner-up in the Cy Young Award voting in 2012.
Darvish has been one of the best pitchers in Japan and the MLB, posting a 95-75 record with a 3.50 ERA. Darvish was born in Japan, but played for the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters in 2005.
Darvish signed with the Texas Rangers in 2012 and finished his first season as the runner-up in the Cy Young Award voting. Darvish signed with the Dodgers in 2017 and won his first championship with the team.
Darvish signed with the Cubs in 2018 and is currently with the team in 2020. Darvish is a three-time Pacific League strikeout champion and two-time ERA champion.
Also Played For: san diego padres
5. Hisashi Iwakuma
Pitcher
Career
- NPB, 3× All-Star (2003, 2004, 2008), Pacific League MVP (2008), Eiji Sawamura Award (2008), 2× Best Nine Award (2004, 2008), 2× Pacific League wins leader (2004, 2008), Pacific League ERA leader (2008), MLB, All-Star (2013), Pitched a no-hitter on August 12, 2015
Iwakuma was born in the Tokyo suburb of Higashiyamato and made his professional debut for the Osaka Kintetsu Buffaloes in 2001. Iwakuma spent five seasons with the Mariners, posting a 107-69 record with 4.13 ERA in 232 appearances.
Iwakuma was traded to the Yomiuri Giants in 2019. Iwakuma is a two-time All-Star and MVP in the Pacific League and was an excellent pitcher for the Mariners from 2012-2017.
Iwakuma started his career with the Osaka Kintetsu Buffaloes and finished his career with the Yomiuri Giants.
Iwakuma is one of the most successful Japanese pitchers of all time, with a record of 63-39 and a 3.42 ERA. Iwakuma has also won a number of awards, including the NPB MVP and the Eiji Sawamura Award.
Iwakuma is currently a free agent and has been linked with a number of teams, including the Seattle Mariners and the Yomiuri Giants.
6. Hideki Matsui
Outfielder
Career
- NPB, 9× All-Star (1994–2002), 3× Japan Series champion (1994, 2000, 2002), 3× Central League MVP (1996, 2000, 2002), Japan Series MVP (2000), 8× Best Nine Award (1995–2002), Matsutaro Shoriki Award (2000), , MLB, , 2× All-Star (2003, 2004), World Series champion (2009), World Series MVP (2009)
He was born in Japan, and debuted in the NPB with the Yomiuri Giants in 1993. He signed with the New York Yankees in 2003 and made his MLB debut that year.
After two seasons with the Yankees, Matsui signed with the Tampa Bay Rays in 2012. Matsui has had a decorated career in both NPB and MLB, winning three championships with the Yomiuri Giants and two with the Yankees.
Matsui is a three-time All-Star and two-time Silver Slugger Award winner. He is also a member of the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame.
Matsui will be remembered for his power and dramatic home runs, which helped him win multiple championships and become one of the greatest players in NPB and MLB history.
Hideki Matsui was a huge star in Japan before coming to MLB and was a key player for the Yomiuri Giants for many years. He was a three-time Japan Series champion and was MVP of the 2000 Japan Series.
Matsui had a huge impact on the Yankees and was a fan favorite there. He was traded to the Angels in 2010 and had another great year, hitting 38 home runs.
Matsui was traded to the A's in 2011 and had another good year, hitting 28 home runs. He was traded to the Rays in 2012 and had a down year, hitting only 17 home runs.
Matsui announced his retirement after the 2012 season. Matsui was a very good hitter and is one of the most popular players in MLB history.
Also Played For: new york yankees
7. Sadaharu Oh
Career
- 11× Japan Series Champion (as a player) (1961, 1963, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973), 9× Central League MVP (1964, 1965, 1967, 1969, 1970, 1973, 1974, 1976, 1977), 2× Japanese Triple Crown (1973, 1974), 3× Japan Professional Sports Grand Prize (1974, 1976, 1977), Hit for the cycle on April 25, 1963, 2× Japan Series Champion (as a manager) (1999, 2003), 7× Japan Series Champion (as an executive) (2011, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020), Yomiuri Giants #1 retired, Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks #89 honored, , NPB/World records, , 868 Career Home runs (World record), 1.079 Career OPS (Japanese record), 2,170 Career Runs batted in (Japanese record)
Sadaharu Oh is one of the most successful first basemen in NPB history. He played for the Yomiuri Giants for over 20 years and is the all-time leader in hits, home runs, and RBI.
Oh was born in Sumida, Tokyo, in 1940. Oh made his NPB debut with the Yomiuri Giants in 1959 and remained with the team until 1980. Oh was a three-time Japan Series champion (1966, 1967, and 1976).
He also won two Golden Glove Awards (1966 and 1973). Oh was inducted into the Japan Baseball Hall of Fame in 2006. Sadaharu Oh's retirement from professional baseball was announced in 1980. He remained active in the game as a coach for the Giants until 1993.
Sadaharu Oh was diagnosed with leukemia in 2003 and underwent treatment until his death on May 20, 2010. Sadaharu Oh was an excellent player and manager in his time.
He was a 11-time Japan Series champion and won a Triple Crown in 1973. Oh retired as a player in 1980, but returned as manager of the Giants in 1984.
He led the Giants to two more Japan Series championships in 1999 and 2003. Oh retired from managing in 2008, but returned to the club as an executive in 2009. Sadaharu Oh is a two-time recipient of the Japan Professional Sports Grand Prize.
He was inducted into the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame in 2007. Sadaharu Oh will be the first player in history to have his number retired by two different teams, the Giants and the Hawks. Sadaharu Oh is a symbol of Japanese baseball and is beloved by both fans and players.
8. Hotaka Yamakawa
Saitama Seibu Lions
Career
- Pacific League MVP (2018), 4× NPB All-Star (2018, 2019, 2021, 2022), 2× Pacific League Home Run Leader (2018, 2019), 2× Pacific League Best Nine Award (2018, 2019), Hochi Professional Sports Award (2018)
Yamakawa is a 31-year-old right-handed first baseman for the Saitama Seibu Lions. He made his NPB debut in 2014 and has since played in 134 games. Yamakawa is a powerful hitter, with a batting average of .292 and a slugging percentage of .527.
Yamakawa has also been very effective at getting on base, with a on-base percentage of .395. Yamakawa is a good defensive player, having played in 134 games at first base and only committing seven errors. Yamakawa has a contract with the Lions until 2020.
Yamakawa is the son of former major league player and manager, Hotaka Yamakawa. Yamakawa is a native of Okinawa, and has represented Japan in international competition, including at the World Baseball Classic. Yamakawa is a veteran outfielder for the Saitama Seibu Lions.
He has spent his entire career with the Lions and is a three-time Pacific League MVP and two-time Pacific League Home Run Leader.
Yamakawa has also been a regular on the Japan national team, and has competed in the World Baseball Classic and the Asian Games. Yamakawa is a threat both at the plate and in the outfield, and will be an important part of the Lions moving forward.
9. Tomoya Mori
Orix Buffaloes
Career
- Pacific League MVP (2019), 3× Best Nine Award (2018, 2019, 2021), 1× Pacific League batting champion (2019), 5× NPB All-Star (2015, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022), 2× Best Battery Award with Pitcher Shinsaburō Tawata (2018) and Pitcher Tatsushi Masuda (2019), 2× NPB All-Star Most Valuable Player Award (2018, 2019), SKY PerfecTV! Dramatic Sayonara Award Annual Grand Prize (2018), Outstanding Player Award (2014)
Tomoya Mori was born on August 8, 1995 in Saitama, Japan. Mori was drafted by the Orix Buffaloes in the 2014 NPB draft. He made his NPB debut with the team in July of that year.
In 2020, Mori will be eligible for free agency. Mori has a batting average of .291 and has hit684 hits in his NPB career. He has also homered 83 times and driven in 370 runs. Mori is a catcher and has played for the Saitama Seibu Lions throughout his NPB career.
Mori is set to become a free agent in 2020. He is likely to be sought after by other NPB teams. Mori is a hard worker and is known for his consistent batting average and home run totals.
Mori is a great teammate and is always willing to help out his teammates. Mori is a talented catcher who is destined for big things in his NPB career.
10. Munetaka Murakami
Tokyo Yakult Swallows
Career
- Batting average: .281
- Hits: 543
- Home runs: 160
- RBIs: 430
- Stolen bases: 40
- 2× Central League MVP (2021, 2022), 3× NPB All-Star (2019, 2021, 2022), 2019 Central League Rookie of the Year, Japan Series champion (2021), 2× Central League Home Run Leader (2021, 2022), Interleague play MVP (2022), Hochi Professional Sports Award (2019), 3× Best Nine Award (2020, 2021, 2022), Totetsu Kogyo Strong Award (March-May 2021)
Munetaka Murakami is a 23-year-old infielder for the Tokyo Yakult Swallows. Murakami was born in Kumamoto Prefecture in 2000. Murakami played in the Japanese minor leagues before making his professional debut with the Tokyo Yakult Swallows in September 2018.
Murakami has spent most of his time at second base, but has also played shortstop and third base. Murakami has a batting average of .281 and has hit five home runs and driven in 160 runs in 505 plate appearances in his professional career. Murakami is a left-handed batter and throws right-handed.
Murakami is a member of the Japan national team and competed in the 2019 World Baseball Classic. Murakami is expected to remain with the Yakult Swallows through the 2022 season.
Munetaka Murakami is a Japanese professional baseball player who currently plays for the Tokyo Yakult Swallows. In addition to his playing career, Murakami is also a coach for the Swallows.
He has also served as the manager for the Swallows' farm team, the Swallows' Eagles, in the NPB. Murakami has been a key contributor to the Yakult Swallows over the years, winning multiple awards and accolades.
He is currently in his eleventh season with the Swallows, and has helped the team to several championships and high-profile accomplishments. Munetaka Murakami is a three-time NPB All-Star and two-time Central League MVP.
He was also the Central League Home Run Leader in both 2021 and 2022. On March 5, 2019, Murakami was awarded the Hochi Professional Sports Award. He is a member of the Japan national baseball team and has represented his country in several international tournaments.
11. Yoshinobu Yamamoto
Orix Buffaloes
Career
- 2× Pacific League MVP (2021, 2022), 2× Eiji Sawamura Award (2021, 2022), 2× Japanese Triple Crown (2021, 2022), 3× Pacific League ERA Champion (2019, 2021, 2022), 4× NPB All-Star (2018-2019, 2021, 2022), 2× Best Nine Award (2021, 2022), 2× Pacific League Golden Glove Award (2021, 2022), Interleague play MVP (2021), Tokyo 2020 All-Olympic Baseball Team (2021), Pitched a no-hitter on June 18, 2022[1], 2× Best Battery Award with Catcher Kenya Wakatsuki (2021, 2022), Japan Series champion (2022)
Yoshinobu Yamamoto was born on August 17, 1998 in Bizen, Okayama, Japan. He made his professional debut with the Orix Buffaloes in August of 2017. Yamamoto has a 54-23 win-loss record and an ERA of 1.95.
He has also struck out 753 batters in 622 innings pitched. Yamamoto has saved 1 game with a 1.85 ERA. Yamamoto has held 32 players in check with a .927 fielding percentage. Yamamoto has exhibited some of the best pitching stats in NPB in 2017 and 2018.
He is currently one of the top young pitchers in the NPB. Yamamoto is a key player for the Buffaloes as they look to win a championship in the near future.
Yamamoto is a powerful and efficient pitcher who is in for a long and successful career in NPB. Yamamoto is one of the most promising pitchers in the NPB and has a bright future ahead of him.
12. Tetsuto Yamada
Tokyo Yakult Swallows
Career
- NPB, Japan Series champion (2021), Interleague play CL Nippon Life Award Winner (2014), Central League MVP (2015), Central League Home Run Leader (2015), 3× Central League Stolen Base Leader (2015-2016, 2018), 6× Best Nine Award (2014-2016, 2018-2019, 2021), 7× NPB All-Star (2014–2016, 2018–2019, 2021, 2022), Tokyo 2020 Baseball Most Valuable Player (2021), Tokyo 2020 All-Olympic Baseball Team (2021), Hochi Professional Sports Award (2015), Commissioner's Special Award (2016), 2× Central League Federation Special Awards (2015, 2018), 3× Tsubame City Annual Hero Award (2014-2016)[1][2][3], New Word/Buzzword Award Annual Grand Prize (2015), Hit 4 home runs in one game on August 21, 2015 vs. Chunichi Dragons at (Meiji Jingu Stadium), Hit for the cycle on July 9, 2018
Tetsuto Yamada is a 30-year-old second baseman for the Tokyo Yakult Swallows. He has been with the team since 2012 and has had some success, batting over .286 with 1,401 hits and 271 home runs in 801 NPB games.
Yamada was born in Toyooka, Hyōgo Prefecture, in Japan on July 16, 1992. He started playing baseball in middle school and quickly rose through the ranks, playing for the national team in the under-18 and under-20 levels.
Yamada made his NPB debut with the Tokyo Yakult Swallows in 2012 and has been solid ever since, appearing in over 1,000 games and averaging over 26 hits per season. Yamada is a versatile player, able to bat left or right and handle the bat well in all phases of the game.
He is also a capable fielder, with great range at second base. Yamada is a two-time Japan Series champion (with the Yakult Swallows in 2016 and the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles in 2018).
He is also a two-time Pacific League MVP (2015 and 2018). Yamada is signed through 2022 and has indicated that he would like to play until he is 40 or 41. He is a key player for the Yakult Swallows and is an important part of their future.
13. Kodai Senga
Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks
Career
- 3× NPB All-Star (2013, 2017, 2019), 5× Japan Series champion (2015, 2017–2020), 2× Pacific League strikeout leader (2019, 2020), Pacific League ERA leader (2020), Pacific League winning percentage leader (2017), Pacific League wins champion (2020), 2× Pacific League Best Nine Award (2019, 2020), 2× Mitsui Golden Glove Award (2019, 2020), 2017 World Baseball Classic All-Tournament Team, Pitched a no-hitter on September 6, 2019, Japanese Triple Crown (2020)[citation needed], Gamagōri City Sports Honor Award (2017)[1]
Senga is a pitcher for the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball league. He has a 87-44 record with 2.59 ERA in 1,252 strikeouts in his career.
Senga was born in Gamagōri, Aichi Prefecture, on January 30, 1993. He started playing baseball at the age of five. Senga was drafted by the Mets in the first round of the 2014 NPB Draft.
He made his debut for the Mets in April 2016. Senga was named an NPB All-Star for the first time in his career in 2018. Senga is married and has a baby daughter. Kodai Senga is a Japanese pitcher who has played for the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks in the Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB).
He has won five Japan Series titles with the Hawks and has been named to the All-Star team five times. Senga has also led the Pacific League in strikeouts twice and in ERA once. He was also the Pacific League MVP in 2020. Kodai Senga was born on October 6, 1992 in the city of Fukuoka, Japan.
He started playing baseball in the fourth grade and was a standout pitcher in his school team. He then went to Chuo University and played for the university’s baseball team. In 2012, Kodai Senga was drafted by the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks and made his debut in the NPB.
He has since become one of the most successful pitchers in NPB history, and is a three-time All-Star and two-time Japan Series champion. Kodai Senga is a strikeout pitcher and is known for his high-intensity performances on the field.
He is also a very good fielder and has been awarded with the Japanese Triple Crown (2020). Kodai Senga is a very popular player in Japan and is considered one of the best pitchers in NPB history. He is still young and has a lot of potential to achieve even more in his career.
14. Hayato Sakamoto
Yomiuri Giants
Career
- Central League Rookie Player Special Award (2008), Central League MVP (2019), 7× Best Nine Award (2009, 2012, 2016, 2018-2021), 5× Central League Golden Glove Award (2016, 2017, 2019-2021), Central League batting champion (2016), 13× NPB All-Star (2008–2014, 2016–2019, 2021, 2022), 2× Japan Series champion (2009, 2012), Tokyo 2020 All-Olympic Baseball Team (2021), Hochi Professional Sports Award (2009), Sports Nippon Shimbun Selected Super Play Award (2009), 2x Home Hero of the Year (2015,[1] 2016[2]), 2012 Asia Series MVP, Itami Citizen Honor Award (2021)[3], , NPB records, , NPB record 35-game on-base streak
Hayato Sakamoto is a shortstop for the Yomiuri Giants and is in his sixth year in the NPB. He has had a successful NPB career, with 2,126 hits and 263 home runs.
Sakamoto was born in Itami, Hyogo, Japan in 1988. He started playing baseball in the fifth grade, and joined the Yomiuri Giants in 2007. Sakamoto has been a consistent contributor for the Giants, batting over .300 in each of his six seasons.
He has also hit 263 home runs and helped the team win the NPB championship in 2017. Sakamoto is a right-handed batter and throws right-handed. He has appeared in 148 games over the past two seasons, and has been a key part of the Giants' success.
Sakamoto is a two-time NPB All-Star, and is currently on the Japan national team. He is also a member of the Japanese Olympic team. Sakamoto is married and has two children. He is looking to continue his successful NPB career and help the Giants win another championship.
15. Liván Moinelo
Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks
Career
- Pacific League Best Relief Pitcher Award (2020), Pacific League hold leader (2020), 4× Japan Series Champion (2017–2020), 1× NPB All-Star (2022)
Liván Moinelo is a left-handed pitcher for the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks of Nippon Professional Baseball. Moinelo made his professional debut in 2013 with the Vegueros de Pinar del Río.
In 2017, Moinelo was called up to the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks. Moinelo has a 28-16 record with an ERA of 2.62. Moinelo is Cuba's all-time leader in strikeouts with 539. Moinelo is a left-handed pitcher who throws from the left side.
Moinelo is a 27-year-old left-hander who has a promising future in professional baseball. Moinelo is a Venezuelan-born pitcher who has spent most of his career with the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks.
He has been one of the league's best relievers, compiling a 16-9 record, 2.05 ERA, and 385 strikeouts in 122 appearances.
Moinelo has been a key part of the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks' recent success, helping the team win four Japan Series titles in the past five years. He was also named Pacific League Best Relief Pitcher in 2020.
Moinelo is a highly-touted prospect who is likely to be a fixture in the bullpen for many years to come. He is a polished pitcher who commands the strike zone well, and his ability to get hitters out will be a key factor in the Hawks' continued success.
16. Hiromitsu Ochiai
Lotte Orions
Career
- 2× Pacific League MVP (1982, 1985), 3x Japanese Triple Crown (1982, 1985, 1986)
Hiromitsu Ochiai is a retired Japanese right-handed batter and right-handed pitcher. He played in the Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) for 22 seasons, from 1979 to 1998.
Ochiai was a three-time Gold Glove winner and a two-time All-Star. He was also the NPB's home run king, with 510 home runs. Ochiai was known for his powerful batting and pitching performances.
He was inducted into the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame in 2007. Ochiai retired from professional baseball in 1998. He currently serves as a commentator for the Nippon Ham Fighters, the team he played for from 1998 to 1998.
Hiromitsu Ochiai was an outfielder who played for the Lotte Orions, Chunichi Dragons, and Yomiuri Giants between 1979 and 1993. Ochiai was a key part of the Orions' 1982 and 1985 Japanese Triple Crown-winning teams and was also MVP of the 1985 season.
Ochiai then spent two seasons with the Dragons before moving to the Giants in 1994. He played for the Fighters for one season before retiring in 1996. Ochiai then served as manager of the Dragons for four seasons before joining the Chunichi front office as general manager in 2013.
Ochiai led the Dragons to the Japan Series in both 2016 and 2017, and he was awarded the Japan Sports Awards Manager of the Year in both years.
17. Sachio Kinugasa
Career
- 13× NPB All-Star (1971, 1974–1977, 1980–1987), 3× Central League Best Nine Award (1975, 1980, 1984), Central League Stolen Base Champion (1976), 3× Centaral League Golden Glove Award (1980, 1984, 1986), Central League MVP (1984), Central League RBI Champion (1984), Matsutaro Shoriki Award (1984), People's Honour Award (1987), Hiroshima Toyo Carp #3 retired, , Records, , 2215-Consecutive Games (1970–1987), 20-years consecutive seasons over 10 Home runs (1968–1987), 13-years consecutive seasons over 20 Home runs (1974–1986), 5-consecutive games Home runs (June 6–10, 1971), Hitting for the cycle (July 7, 1976), 2-Hit by pitches in the same inning (August 31, 1976), 2-consecutive games Lead-off home runs (October 4–5, 1977)
Kinugasa was a talented third baseman who played in Japan for over 20 years. Kinugasa was known for his powerful batting and throwing abilities. Kinugasa passed away in 2018 at the age of 71 after a long battle with cancer.
Kinugasa is remembered for his many accomplishments in the Japanese baseball league, including winning three MVP Awards and two Golden Glove Awards. Kinugasa is also remembered for his charitable work, which included raising money for cancer research.
Sachio Kinugasa was one of the most dominant hitters in Japanese baseball history. He won three MVP awards and 13 All-Star berths in his career.
Kinugasa was a prolific base stealer, and is the all-time leader in NPB history with 266 thefts. Kinugasa is also known for his dynamic batting style, and was a feared hitter in the NPB.
After playing his entire career with the Hiroshima Toyo Carp, Kinugasa was inducted into the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame in 1987.
Sachio Kinugasa passed away in 1987 at the age of 43 from a heart attack. He was a beloved figure in Japanese baseball, and his death was mourned by fans and players throughout the country.
18. Katsuya Nomura
Career
- 5× PL MVP (1961, 1963, 1965, 1966, 1973), 2x Japan Series champion (as a player) (1959, 1964), NPB Triple Crown (1965), 9x PL home run leader (1957, 1961–1968), 7x PL RBI leader (1962–1967, 1972), 19x Best Nine Award (1956–1968, 1970–1973, 1975, 1976), 2x All-Star Series MVP (1972, 1977), 3x Japan Series champion (as a manager) (1993, 1995, 1997), Matsutaro Shoriki Award (1993)
Katsuya Nomura was a catcher and manager in Japanese baseball. Nomura made his professional debut with the Nankai Hawks in 1954. He played for the Seibu Lions from 1980 to 1980.
Nomura was a .277 hitter in the Japanese Baseball League. Nomura is survived by his wife, four children, and eight grandchildren. Nomura passed away on February 11, 2020 at the age of 84.
Nomura played in both the Japanese and Korean leagues as a player and managed in both leagues in his career. Nomura had a winning percentage of .500 as a manager. Nomura managed the Nankai Hawks, Lotte Orions, Seibu Lions, and Yakult Swallows.
Nomura was inducted into the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame in 1993. Nomura was a part of the Japanese team that won the World Baseball Classic in 2004. Nomura is currently the manager of the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles.
19. Masahiro Tanaka
Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles
Career
- NPB, Pacific League Rookie of the Year (2007), Pacific League MVP (2013), 2013 PLCS MVP, 7× NPB All-Star (2007–2009, 2011–2013, 2021), 2× Eiji Sawamura Award (2011, 2013), 2× NPB wins champion (2011, 2013), 2× NPB ERA champion (2011, 2013), NPB strikeout champion (2012), 2× Best Nine Award (2011, 2013), 3× Golden Glove Award (2011–2013), Japan Series champion (2013), Japan Professional Sports Grand Prize (2013), , MLB, , 2× All-Star (2014, 2019)
Tanaka is a Japanese-born pitcher who has played in both the MLB and NPB. Tanaka has a 105-44 record with 2.37 ERA in NPB. Tanaka made his MLB debut with the Yankees in 2014.
Tanaka has won the American League MVP Award in 2017. Tanaka is married and has two children. Tanaka is 34 years old and will be35 in October. Tanaka is expected to retire after the 2022 NPB season.
Masahiro Tanaka is a Japanese pitcher who has played for the New York Yankees since 2014. Tanaka is a three-time NPB MVP and two-time wins champion. Tanaka has a 78-46 win-loss record in MLB and a 3.74 ERA.
Tanaka has struck out 999 batters in 991 MLB innings. Tanaka is an eight-time NPB All-Star and a three-time winner of the Eiji Sawamura Award. Tanaka is 35 years old and will likely be with the Yankees for at least another four seasons.
20. Daisuke Matsuzaka
Saitama Seibu Lions
Career
- NPB, Pacific League Rookie of the Year (1999), 3× NPB win leader (1999–2001), 4× NPB strikeout leader (2000–2001, 2003, 2005), 2× NPB ERA leader (2003–2004), Eiji Sawamura Award (2001), 3× NPB Best Nine Award (1999–2001), 7× Mitsui Golden Glove Award (1999–2001, 2003–2006), 7× NPB All-Star (1999–2001, 2004–2006, 2018), 2× Japan Series champion (2004, 2017), Comeback Player of the Year (2018), , MLB, , World Series champion (2007), , Japan National Team, , 2× World Baseball Classic champion (2006, 2009), 2× World Baseball Classic MVP (2006, 2009), 2x All-World Baseball Classic Team (2006, 2009), , Other, , Japan Professional Sports Grand Prize (1999)
Matsuzaka is a two-time Cy Young Award winner and former ace for the Boston Red Sox. In 2007, Matsuzaka was traded to the New York Mets and had a successful tenure with the team, including a victory in the 2014 World Series.
Matsuzaka announced his retirement from baseball in September 2014. Matsuzaka is a father of two and currently resides in Japan. Daisuke Matsuzaka is a former pitcher in the Major Leagues who has amassed a record of 56-43 with an ERA of 4.45 and 721 strikeouts.
After a successful career in Japan with Seibu Lions, Matsuzaka joined the Boston Red Sox in 2007. However, his tenure in the United States was short-lived as he was traded to the New York Mets in 2012.
After struggling in his first two seasons with the Mets, Matsuzaka was traded to the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks in Japan in 2013.
After a successful season in Japan, Matsuzaka was traded to the Chunichi Dragons in 2019. Matsuzaka will return to the Seibu Lions for the 2021 season.
21. Kohei Arihara
Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks
Career
- 1× Wins leader (2019), Pacific League Rookie of the Year (2015), 2× NPB All-Star (2016, 2019), Japan Series Champion (2016)
Kohei Arihara is a right-handed pitcher in the NPB who has played for the Fighters since 2015. In his rookie season, he posted a win-loss record of 60-50.
Arihara was born in Hiroshima, Japan in 1992. Arihara started playing baseball in high school and was drafted by the Fighters in the NPB amateur draft in 2014.
Arihara made his MLB debut with the Rangers in 2021. He has pitched in nine games, winning four and losing five. Arihara is a two-time NPB all-star and was named the Most Valuable Player in the 2017 Japan Series.
Kohei Arihara is a Japanese professional baseball player who has played for the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters and the Texas Rangers in the major leagues. He was also a member of the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks in the NPB.
Arihara was born on July 4, 1992, in Hiroshima, Japan. He attended high school in Iwate, Japan and played college baseball at Chico State. Arihara made his professional debut with the Nippon-Ham Fighters in 2015. He was named Pacific League Rookie of the Year that year.
In 2016, Arihara was named an NPB All-Star and helped the Japanese team win the Japan Series. He was also selected to the Japanese national team for the 2016 Olympics.
In 2019, Arihara became the Pacific League's wins leader. That same year, he was selected to the Japan Series team again and helped the Hawks win their first championship.
Arihara is in the midst of a three-year contract with the Rangers and is expected to compete for a starting position in 2019. Arihara is a left-handed pitcher and throws two pitches: a fastball and a slider.
22. Hideo Nomo
Osaka Kintetsu Buffaloes
Career
- NPB, 5× NPB All-Star (1990-1994), Best Nine Award (1990), Pacific League MVP (1990), Eiji Sawamura Award (1990), Triple Crown (1990), Pacific League Rookie of the Year (1990), , MLB, , All-Star (1995), NL Rookie of the Year (1995), 2× Strikeout leader (1995, 2001), Threw two career no-hitters (1996, 2001)
Hideo Nomo is considered one of the greatest pitchers in NPB history. He won 78 games in his career and led the league in strikeouts four times. Nomo was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1995 and made his MLB debut in 1995.
He pitched for the Dodgers and the Kansas City Royals before retiring in 2008. Nomo has been involved in a number of controversies during his career, including allegations of using performance-enhancing drugs. Nomo was born in Osaka, Japan, in 1968.
He started playing baseball at an early age and was a star pitcher at the prestigious school Meiji Gakuin University. After retiring from baseball, Nomo began a career as a baseball commentator and motivational speaker. He currently lives in the United States.
Hideo Nomo is one of the most successful pitchers in Japanese baseball history. Nomo helped lead the Kintetsu Buffaloes to two Japanese Baseball League championships and an overall record of 123-109.
Nomo also played for the Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Mets in the MLB, before joining the Milwaukee Brewers in 1999.
Nomo was traded to the Detroit Tigers in 2000 and then to the Boston Red Sox in 2001. Nomo finished his career with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2004.
Hideo Nomo was inducted into the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame in 2006. In 2008, Hideo Nomo was hired as a pitching coach for the Kansas City Royals. Hideo Nomo currently resides in Japan with his family.
Hideo Nomo is considered one of the best pitchers in Japanese baseball history.
23. Yasuaki Yamasaki
Yokohama DeNA BayStars
Career
- Win–loss Record: 16-24
- Earned Run Average: 2.62
- Strikeouts: 440
- Saves: 207
- 6× NPB All-Star (2015–2019, 2021), 2015 Central League Rookie of the Year
Yasuaki Yamasaki is a Japanese pitcher who is currently playing for the Yokohama DeNA BayStars. Yamasaki made his professional baseball debut with the Yokohama DeNA BayStars in March of 2015.
The right-handed pitcher has had a relatively unsuccessful career thus far, with a win-loss record of 16-24 and an ERA of 2.62. Yamasaki does have some impressive stats, including a strikeout rate of 440.
Yamasaki is still young, and has time to improve his game. He is a key player for the Yokohama DeNA BayStars as they look to improve their record this season. Yasuaki Yamasaki is a Japanese professional baseball pitcher who has played for the Yokohama DeNA BayStars since 2015.
Yamasaki was born in Osaka on October 5, 1990. He attended Kokushikan Junior High School, and then went on to join the Chuo University Baseball Club. Yamasaki made his professional debut with the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks in 2010. He transferred to the Yokohama DeNA BayStars in 2015.
Yamasaki has a career record of 25–22 with a 3.68 ERA in 290 innings. Yamasaki was a member of the Japanese national team at the 2015 World Baseball Classic, and the 2016 Summer Olympics.
He won the Central League Rookie of the Year Award in 2015. Yamasaki is a pitcher with a fastball in the low to mid-90s, and a slider and changeup.
24. Koji Uehara
Yomiuri Giants
Career
- NPB, 9× All-Star (1999–2005, 2007, 2018), 2× Japan Series champion (2000, 2002), 2× Eiji Sawamura Award (1999, 2002), Triple Crown (1999), Central League Rookie of the Year (1999), 2× Golden Glove (1999, 2003), 2× Best Nine Award (1999, 2002), 2× NPB wins leader (1999, 2002), 2× NPB ERA leader (1999, 2004), 2× NPB strikeout leader (1999, 2003), , MLB, , All-Star (2014), World Series champion (2013), ALCS MVP (2013)
Koji Uehara had a successful MLB career with the Baltimore Orioles, but is most well-known in Japan for his dominance with the Yomiuri Giants. Uehara is considered one of the greatest pitchers in Japanese baseball history, and has won numerous awards, including a Golden Glove Award and three Sawamura Awards.
In 2019, Uehara announced his retirement from MLB after 17 seasons. He will continue to play for the Yomiuri Giants in NPB. Uehara is a two-time NPB MVP and a six-time All-Star.
He is a member of the Japanese national team, and won a Silver Medal at the 2004 Athens Olympics. Koji Uehara is often mentioned as a possible candidate for the Japanese Hall of Fame.
Uehara was born in Osaka, but has resided in the U.S. since 2009. Koji Uehara is a relief pitcher for the Yomiuri Giants.
He is a nine-time All-Star, a two-time Japan Series champion, and has a 2.66 earned run average. Uehara was born in Hiroshima, Japan, in 1975. He started playing baseball at the age of six, and joined the Hiroshima Toyo Carp at the age of 17.
Uehara made his major league debut with the Yomiuri Giants in 1999. He has played for the Giants ever since, and has been a key part of their success over the years.
Uehara has had a number of memorable moments in his career, including winning the Japan Series with the Giants in 2002. He has also been a key part of Japan's international success, appearing in the 2004 and 2010 World Baseball Championships.
Uehara is a relief pitcher, and his main role is to keep the opposing team from scoring. He is a very effective pitcher, and has won a number of awards over the years, including nine All-Star appearances.
25. Hiroki Kuroda
Hiroshima Toyo Carp
Career
- 5× NPB All-Star (2001, 2005–2007, 2015), Best Nine Award (2005), Golden Glove Award (2005), Hiroshima Toyo Carp No. 15 retired
Hiroki Kuroda is a right-handed pitcher who has played in both MLB and NPB. Kuroda made his MLB debut with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2008 and has since played for the New York Yankees and Hiroshima Toyo Carp.
Kuroda is known for his strong strikeout ability and has averaged over 200 strikeouts per season in his MLB career. Kuroda has also averaged over nine innings per start in his MLB career and has won at least 10 games in each of the past three seasons.
Kuroda is a two-time NPB All-Star and has been named to the NPB Best Nine on three occasions. Kuroda is married and has two children. Hiroki Kuroda was a dominant pitcher for the Hiroshima Toyo Carp for many years. He retired with a 124-105 record and an ERA of 3.55.
He struck out 1,461 batters in his career and was a three-time NPB All-Star. Kuroda was also awarded the Best Nine Award in 2005. Hiroki Kuroda signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2008 and had a successful time there. He won 79 games in three seasons with the team and had an ERA of 3.45.
However, in 2011, Kuroda was traded to the New York Yankees. In 2012, he had his best season to date, going 20-5 with a 3.22 ERA and 1,986 strikeouts. He was an All-Star for the third time in his career and won the American League Cy Young Award.
After another successful season with the Yankees in 2014, Hiroki Kuroda signed with the Hiroshima Toyo Carp for the 2015 season.
He went 9-1 with a 3.10 ERA and 1,461 strikeouts in his first year with the Carp. In 2016, he was named the Japan Series MVP after leading the Carp to a championship victory over the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks.
26. Kazuo Matsui
Saitama Seibu Lions
Career
- Homered on the first pitch of his MLB career, Homered in his first at bat for the first three seasons of his MLB career, 4× Mitsui Golden Glove Award (1997, 1998, 2002, 2003), 7× Best Nine Award at Shortstop (1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003), 3× Pacific League Stolen Base Champion (1997, 1998, 1999), Japan Series champion (2013)
Matsui is a three-time Japan Series champion with the Seibu Lions and a two-time World Series champion with the New York Mets. Matsui was born in Osaka, Japan, and played his first professional baseball game with the Seibu Lions in 1995.
Matsui spent the majority of his career in the MLB with the Mets, Astros, and Red Sox, but he also played in the NPB with the Lions, Japanese team the Yakult Swallows, and Chinese team the Beijing Eagles.
Matsui is best known for his prowess as an infielder, where he was consistently one of the best in the league.
Matsui announced his retirement from professional baseball in 2010, but he made a surprise return to the Saitama Seibu Lions in 2018. Matsui is currently the manager of the Seibu Lions and he will be looking to lead the team to their fourth Japan Series title in history.
27. Keita Sano
Yokohama DeNA BayStars
Career
- Batting average: .301
- Home runs: 49
- Runs batted in: 194
- Central League Batting Champion (2020), 2× NPB All-Star (2021, 2022), 1× Best Nine Award (2020)
Keita Sano is a talented infielder who has been in the Japanese professional baseball league for a few seasons now. He is known for his powerful hitting and superb fielding skills.
He has the potential to be an all-star player in the NPB. Sano is currently with the Yokohama DeNA BayStars. At just 24 years old, Keita Sano has already established himself as one of the best hitters in NPB.
He’s averaged over .300 throughout his career, and has led the league in batting twice. He’s highly versatile, playing both the corner infield and outfield positions, and has also showed great potential as a base stealer.
Sano is a leader on and off the field, and is well respected by his peers. He’s a popular player with the fans, and is always eager to put on a show in the field. He’s signed with the DeNA BayStars until the end of the 2020 season, and is poised to continue his success in Japan.
28. Yasutaka Shiomi
Career
- Batting average: .266
- Hits: 332
- Home runs: 39
- RBIs: 141
- Stolen bases: 62
- Japan Series champion (2021), Best Nine Award (2021), Mitsui Golden Glove Award (2022), Hit for the cycle on September 9, 2021[1], NPB All-Star (2022)
Yasutaka Shiomi is a 29-year-old outfielder for the Tokyo Yakult Swallows. He was signed by the Swallows as a free agent in 2019 and made his debut with the team later that year.
Shiomi has played for the Swallows' farm team, the Swallows' Challengers, in the Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) system for the past two seasons. He has a batting average of .266 in NPB and has also played for the national team in the 2017 World Baseball Classic.
Shiomi is a right-handed hitter and throws right-handed. Shiomi is a native of Sagamihara, Kanagawa, and attended Kanagawa Prefecture Gakuin University. He is currently in his fourth season of playing in NPB. Shiomi has been one of the most consistent hitters in NPB over the past few seasons.
He's been a key contributor to the Yakult Swallows' success in the Japan Series, and was even named the series champion in 2021. He has also been a two-time Golden Glove Award nominee and a Hit for the Cycle recipient. Shiomi is a versatile player, capable of playing both first and second base.
He is set to enter his seventh NPB season in 2020.
29. Yūki Okabayashi
Career
- 1× Central League Golden Glove Award (2022), 1× Central League Best Nine Award (2022)
Yūki Okabayashi is a 20-year-old outfielder and pitcher for the Chunichi Dragons in NPB. Okabayashi was born in Matsuzaka, Mie, Japan in February of 2002.
Okabayashi began playing baseball at an early age and showed great potential. In 2020, Okabayashi made his NPB debut with the Chunichi Dragons. Okabayashi is a left-handed hitter and throws right-handed.
Okabayashi is currently in his third year with the Chunichi Dragons. Okabayashi is a very promising young player who is looking to continue his development in NPB. Okabayashi is a hard-working player who is always looking to improve his skills.
Okabayashi is a very talented player with a bright future in NPB. Yūki Okabayashi is a right-handed pitcher who played for the Chunichi Dragons in the NPB from 2020 to 2022. In 2022, Okabayashi won the Central League Golden Glove Award and the Central League Best Nine Award.
Okabayashi is known for his striking fastball and his ability to control the strike zone. In total, Okabayashi recorded a 0.273 batting average and 6 RBIs in 82 games played. Okabayashi is a graduate of the Shizuoka Gakuin University, where he played for the school's baseball team.
He was drafted by the Chunichi Dragons in the third round of the NPB draft in 2018. Okabayashi is a member of the Japanese national team and has played in the 2019 World Baseball Classic and the 2020 Summer Olympics.
30. Shugo Maki
Career
- Batting average: .316
- Home runs: 24
- RBIs: 78
- 1× Central League Federation Special Award (2021)[1], 1× NPB All-Star (2022), Hit for the cycle on August 25, 2021, Most doubles in a rookie season: (35 doubles) Most in Central League history[2], , NPB records, , 5 consecutive doubles at bat : October 23-26, 2021[3], Most hits in a rookie season: Tie record with Shigeo Nagashima[2]
Maki was born in Nakano, Nagano, Japan on April 21, 1998. He made his debut with the Yokohama DeNA BayStars in March 2021. Maki is an infielder and has played in both right and left field.
Maki has a batting average of .316 and has scored 95 runs in 210 games. Maki is a hard-hitting player who is always looking for a hit. Maki is a great teammate and is always contributing to the team.
Maki is a great role model for young players. Maki is a student of the game and is always looking to improve. Maki is a talented player who has a bright future ahead of him. Maki is a two-time Central League champion and NPB All-Star.
Maki hit for the cycle on August 25, 2021, which set a NPB record. Maki is known for his speed and strong batting average.
31. Mel Rojas Jr.
Mississippi Braves
Career
- KBO, 2x KBO Golden Gloves Award (2019, 2020), KBO MVP (2020), 1x KBO Home Run Leader (2020), 1x KBO RBI Leader (2020), 1x KBO Runs scored Leader (2020)
Mel Rojas Jr. is an outfielder for the Hanshin Tigers in the Japanese Professional Baseball League. He made his debut with the team in 2017 and has since been one of the team's most productive players.
Rojas Jr. was born in Indianapolis, Indiana, in 1990. He played college baseball at the University of Kentucky and was drafted by the Detroit Tigers in the fifth round of the 2008 MLB Draft. Rojas Jr. made his pro debut with the KT Wiz in the Korea Baseball Organization in 2017 and had a successful season, batting .321 with 132 home runs.
He signed with the Hanshin Tigers in Japan in 2021 and has since been one of the team's most important players. Rojas Jr. is a switch hitter and has shown great power both at the plate and in the field.
He is a strong defender, having led the KBO in total bases twice and in outfield assists twice. Rojas Jr. is a valuable member of the Hanshin Tigers and is expected to continue to produce at a high level in Japan.
He is a strong candidate for the KBO MVP award in 2020.
32. Tetsuharu Kawakami
Career
- 11× Japan Series Champion (as a manager) (1961, 1963, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973), 3x Japanese Baseball League MVP (1941, 1951, 1955), 5x Central League batting champion, 2x Central League home run crown, 3x Central League RBI champ, Hit for the cycle on July 25, 1954, Yomiuri Giants #16 retired
Tetsuharu Kawakami was a great first baseman in both Japan's professional baseball leagues, the JBL and NPB. He was a consistent hitter and tallied over 2,500 hits during his career.
Kawakami was also a fine fielder and had a strong throwing arm. He played his entire career with the Tokyo Kyojin, making his debut in 1938 and retiring in 1958. Kawakami was a charter member of the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame and was inducted in 1974.
Tetsuharu Kawakami passed away on October 28, 2013 at the age of 93. Kawakami was a slugging first baseman and batting champion in the Central League during the 1950s. He was nicknamed "The Big Bat" and helped lead the Yomiuri Giants to 11 Japan Series championships, including three in a row from 1961 to 1963.
In 1961, he became the first player in Japanese baseball history to hit for the cycle. After retiring as a player, Kawakami served as manager of the Yomiuri Giants for three seasons. He passed away in 2013 at the age of 88.
33. Morimichi Takagi
Chunichi Dragons
Career
- 7× Central League Best Nine Award (1963–1967, 1974, 1977), 3× Central League Golden Glove Award (1974, 1977, 1979), 3× Central League stolen base champion (1963, 1965, 1973), 4× NPB All-Star (1966–1967, 1973, 1979)
Takagi was a versatile second baseman who played in Japan for the Chunichi Dragons over a 20-year career. He was known for his batting average and was a two-time Japan Series champion.
Takagi passed away in 2020 at the age of 78 after a long and successful career in the Japanese professional baseball league. He will be remembered for his batting prowess and his two Japan Series championships.
Morimichi Takagi was a central player for the Chunichi Dragons during their heyday in the 1960s and 1970s. He helped the team win several championships and was named a seven-time Central League Best Nine Award winner.
Takagi also won three Central League Golden Glove Awards and was a prolific stolen base threat. He retired from playing in 1980 but continued to manage and coach the team until 1995 and 2013, respectively. Takagi was a highly respected player and leader within the Japanese baseball community.
He is still widely considered one of the greatest players in Chunichi Dragons history.
34. Kihachi Enomoto
Career
- NPB Rookie of the Year (1955), 12× NPB All-Star (1955-1964, 1966, 1968), 9× Best Nine Award winner (1956, 1959-1964, 1966, 1968), Youngest NPB player to reach 2,000 hits (31 years, 7 months)
Kihachi Enomoto was a first baseman who played in Japan for over 20 years. He was known as a steady hitter with a high batting average. He played for the Mainichi Orions and the Nishitetsu Lions, and had a couple of stints with other teams.
He retired in 1972, but continued to work in the baseball industry. Kihachi Enomoto passed away at the age of 75 in March of 2012. Kihachi Enomoto was an all-star player in Japan for over a decade and was inducted into the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame in 2016.
Enomoto was a key player on the 1955 Mainichi/Daimai/Tokyo/Lotte Orions team that won the Japan Series. After playing for the Nishitetsu Lions for two seasons, Enomoto was traded to the Yomiuri Giants in 1971. He retired from playing in 1972 and became a manager for the Yomiuri Giants.
Enomoto led the Giants to the Japan Series in 1978 and 1979, but was fired after the 1979 season. He later served as the manager for the Chunichi Dragons from 1992 to 1995.
Enomoto was hired as the manager of the Hanshin Tigers in 2006, but was fired after the 2006 season. He was hired as the manager of the Orix Buffaloes in 2007, but was fired after the 2007 season.
Enomoto was hired as the manager of the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles in 2014, but was fired after the 2014 season.
35. Yoshinori Hirose
Career
- 1964 NPB Batting Champion
Hirose was a versatile outfielder who spent most of his career with the Nankai Hawks. He was known for his strong throwing arm and was often used as a defensive outfielder.
Hirose also had a strong batting average, finishing with a .290 career batting average. Hirose was inducted into the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame in 1995. He retired from baseball after the 1977 season.
Hirose is currently a baseball coach for the Hiroshima Toyo Carp. Hirose passed away on August 27, 2016 at the age of 86. Yoshinori Hirose was a manager in both Nankai Hawks (1978-1980) and Fukuoka Daiei Hawks (1991-1992).
He led Fukuoka Daiei to second place in their first season under his guidance. Hirose also played as a catcher in his playing days and is one of the few managers in NPB history to have managed at the highest level while playing at least one season in the league.
Hirose has been involved in coaching since 1991 and is currently the manager of the Nankai Hawks.
36. Shigeo Nagashima
Yomiuri Giants
Career
- 11× Japan Series Champion (as a player) 1961, 1963, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 3× Japan Series Champion (as a manager) 1994, 1996, 2000, 1958 Central League Rookie of the Year, 5× Central League MVP (1961, 1963, 1966, 1968, 1971), 4× Japan Series MVP (1963, 1965, 1969, 1970), Japan Professional Sports Grand Prize (1971), Yomiuri Giants #3 retired
Nagashima played for the Yomiuri Giants for over 20 years and is widely considered one of the greatest third basemen in NPB history. He was a three-time National League batting champion and led the league in home runs twice.
Nagashima was also a three-time National League home run leader, and he holds the NPB record for most home runs in a season (44). He was a member of the Japan national team that won the 1965 World Cup. Nagashima is a member of the Japan Baseball Hall of Fame.
He was born in 1936 in Sakura, Chiba, Japan. Nagashima was a Hall of Fame outfielder who played for the Yomiuri Giants from 1958 to 1974. He was a five-time Central League MVP and four-time Japan Series MVP, and is one of the most decorated players in Japanese baseball history.
He was known for his powerful bat and stellar defense, and is considered one of the best hitters in Japanese history. Nagashima was inducted into the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame in 1997, and the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2006. He retired from baseball in 1974, after winning his fifth Japan Series MVP.
He currently serves as a color commentator for the Yomiuri Giants. Nagashima was born on October 4, 1937 in Hiroshima, and passed away on July 5, 2017 at the age of 80.
37. Tsutomu Wakamatsu
Career
- Batting average: .319
- Home runs: 220
- Hits: 2,173
- Runs batted in: 884
- Central League MVP 1978, 2x Batting Title (1972,1977), 9x Best Nine Award (1972–1974, 1976–1980, 1984), 2x Golden Glove Award (1977, 1978), Championship Series MVP (1978), 11x times All-Star selection(1972–1980, 1983, 1984), 2x All-Star games MVP (1973, 1977), Tokyo Yakult Swallows #1 retired, , NPB record, , Japanese record .319 Batting average
Tsutomu Wakamatsu is a former Japanese professional baseball player who enjoyed a lengthy career in the Nippon Professional Baseball league. He played for the Yakult Swallows from 1971 to 1989 and was a two-time NPB all-star.
Wakamatsu was born on April 17, 1947, in Rumoi, Hokkaidō, Japan. Wakamatsu began his professional baseball career with the Yakult Atoms in 1971. He was a two-time NPB all-star during his time with the Swallows. Wakamatsu retired from professional baseball in 1989.
He currently works as a manager for the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles. Wakamatsu is a member of the Japanese National Baseball Hall of Fame.
Wakamatsu has two children, a daughter and a son, both of whom also play professional baseball. He is the only player in Yakult Swallows history to have won a batting title and a championship series MVP.
He was a two-time batting champion, as well as a three-time best nine award winner. He was a two-time Golden Glove award winner. He was a central league MVP in 1978. He was a manager of the Yakult Swallows from 1993 to 1998.
38. Koji Akiyama
Koji Akiyama is one of the most accomplished players in NPB history, having played in over 2100 games and hitting over 2157 hits. He first debuted with the Seibu Lions in 1981, and was a mainstay in the team for the next 10 years.
In 1992, he joined the Yomiuri Giants, where he spent the next six years before moving to Fukuoka Daiei in 2000.
He retired after the 2002 season, but has since returned to manage the Lions in 2008 and 2009. Koji Akiyama is a two-time Japan Series champion, with the Seibu Lions in 1988 and the Fukuoka Daiei Hawks in 2000.
He is also a two-time All-Star, and was inducted into the NPB Hall of Fame in 2010. Koji Akiyama is married with two children. Koji Akiyama is currently the manager of the Seibu Lions.
Akiyama was a key player on the Seibu Lions teams that won three Japan Series titles in the 1980s. Akiyama also played for Fukuoka Daiei Hawks from 1994 to 2002, helping the team to win the Pacific League championship in both 1998 and 1999.
After retiring as a player, Akiyama began coaching with the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks in 2005. He later served as manager of the team from 2009 to 2014.
Akiyama was inducted into the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame in 2014. During his playing career, he was known for his power and speed. Akiyama is currently the manager of the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks in the Japanese Central League.
39. Kazuhiro Kiyohara
Career
- 18× NPB All-Star (1986–1998, 2000–2002, 2005, 2006), 3× Best Nine Award (1988, 1990, 1992), 5× Golden Glove Award (1988, 1990, 1992–1994)
Kiyohara was drafted by the Lions in the 4th round of the 1986 NPB draft. Kiyohara made his NPB debut with the Lions in 1986 and played for the team until 1998.
Kiyohara was a versatile infielder who was able to bat left-handed and throw right-handed. Kiyohara had a successful NPB career, winning 3 MVP Awards (1994, 1995, and 1998).
Kiyohara announced his retirement from professional baseball in October of 2008. Kiyohara currently serves as the manager for the Orix Buffaloes. Kiyohara is a highly respected member of the Japanese baseball community.
Kiyohara has also played in the MLB for the Boston Red Sox, Tampa Bay Devil Rays, and Los Angeles Dodgers. Kiyohara is a popular speaker and instructor in Japan. Kazuhiro Kiyohara was a talented and successful player in both Japan and the United States.
He was a three-time Best Nine Award winner in Japan and also won a Golden Glove Award. He played for the Seibu Lions and the Yomiuri Giants in his career and was a key part of both teams. He retired after playing for the Orix Buffaloes in 2008.
40. Hiromitsu Kadota
Career
- Avg.: .289
- HRs: 567
- RBIs: 1,678
- 1988 Pacific League MVP
Hiromitsu Kadota was a highly-regarded outfielder in his day, playing for the Nankai Hawks and Fukuoka Daiei Hawks. Kadota was born in 1948 in Onoda, Japan.
He batted left and threw left. Kadota had an illustrious career, playing in Japan for over 20 years. Kadota was known for his speed and fielding ability. Kadota retired in 1992.
Kadota passed away on January 23, 2023, at the age of 74. Kadota was a highly-respected player in Japan, and his career is still remembered today. Hiromitsu Kadota was a great outfielder and had a lengthy career in Japan.
He will be missed. Kadota was a three-time Pacific League MVP and a member of the Japan Baseball Hall of Fame. Kadota was an all-star pitcher in both the Japanese and Pacific Leagues and helped lead the Nankai Hawks to the Japan Series in 1978 and the Orix Braves to the Japan Series in 1989.
Kadota retired in 1990 and later served as a manager for the Fukuoka Daiei Hawks. Kadota was born in Fukuoka Prefecture on October 28, 1955. Kadota passed away on March 14, 2006 after a long battle with cancer.
41. Isao Harimoto
Career
- 1959 Pacific League Rookie of the Year, 1962 Pacific League MVP, 18× All-Star selection (1960–1964, 1966–1978), 16× Best Nine Award winner (1960–1970, 1972–1974, 1976, 1977), 7× Batting Champion (1961, 1967–1970, 1972, 1974), Hit for the cycle on May 7, 1961, , NPB record, , 3085 career hits (Nippon Professional Baseball record)
Isao Harimoto was an outfielder who played in the Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) for over twenty years. He was known for his powerful batting and throwing abilities.
Harimoto made his NPB debut with the Toei Flyers in 1959 and played with the team until 1981. During that time, he was a three-time All-Star and won three Gold Gloves. After leaving the Toei Flyers, Harimoto played for the Lotte Orions (1982-1983) and the Hiroshima Carp (1984-1985).
He retired from professional baseball in 1986. Harimoto is a highly respected figure in Japanese baseball and is often considered one of the best players in NPB history.
He was inducted into the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame in 1999. Harimoto is currently the manager of the Hiroshima Carp and has led the team to two Japan Series titles (2013, 2017).
Harimoto is also a commentator for NPB games and has been involved in several high-profile incidents, including a fight with a player from the Yomiuri Giants in 2001. Harimoto is a grandfather and enjoys spending time with his family.
42. Kazuyoshi Tatsunami
Career
- Batting average: .285
- Home runs: 171
- Runs batted in: 1037
- Japan Series Champion (2007), Central League Rookie of the Year (1988), 2× Best Nine Award (2B: 1996, 3B: 2004), 5× Golden Glove Award (SS: 1988, 2B: 1995-1997, 3B: 2003), 11× NPB All-Star (1988, 1991, 1994-1998, 2000, 2002-2004), 2× Most runs scored (1991, 1994), Most times on base (1996), Hit for the cycle (22 August 1997 vs Hanshin Tigers at Nagoya Dome)
Kazuyoshi Tatsunami is a 53-year-old infielder and manager for the Chunichi Dragons. He made his professional debut with the Dragons in 1988 and has spent all of his NPB career with the team.
Tatsunami is a solid hitter and has a batting average of .285 over his career. He is also known for his strong throwing arm, which has helped him record 514 assists in 910 games. Tatsunami is a valuable member of the Chunichi team and is often called upon to provide stability at the infield.
He will likely continue playing for the Dragons until he retires, which is expected to happen around the end of the 2020 season.
Tatsunami is a popular player among his peers and has been praised for his leadership qualities. He is a father of two and is married to a woman who also works as a coach for the Dragons.
Tatsunami is a well-known figure in the Japanese baseball community and is highly respected for his skills on the field.
43. Yutaka Fukumoto
Career
- Batting average: .291
- Home runs: 208
- Hits: 2,543
- Stolen bases: 1065
- 3x Japan Series champion (1975-1977), Pacific League MVP (1972), Japan Series MVP (1976)
Fukumoto was a left-handed hitter and threw left-handed. Fukumoto was a regular player with the Hankyu Braves from 1969 to 1988. Fukumoto had a batting average of .291 and hit 208 home runs.
Fukumoto also stole 1065 bases in his career. Fukumoto was inducted into the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame in 1999. Fukumoto is currently the hitting coach for the Hanshin Tigers. Fukumoto was born on November 7, 1947, in Osaka, Japan.
Fukumoto is retired and lives in Japan. Fukumoto was a three-time Japan Series champion with the Hankyu Braves (1969-1977). Fukumoto was also a Pacific League MVP and Japan Series MVP. Fukumoto was inducted into the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame in 2002.
44. Atsuya Furuta
Career
- Batting average: .294
- Home runs: 217
- Hits: 2,097
- 2× Central League MVP (1993, 1997), 2× Japan Series MVP (1997, 2001), Matsutaro Shoriki Award (1997), Tokyo Yakult Swallows #27 retired
Atsuya Furuta was a catcher and manager who played for the Yakult Swallows and Tokyo Yakult Swallows over a 10-year career. He had a batting average of .294 and 217 home runs.
Furuta was born in Kawanishi, Hyōgo, Japan, in 1965. He made his debut with the Yakult Swallows in 1990 and played for them until 2007. Furuta was a two-time Japan Series champion with the Yakult Swallows in 2001 and 2003.
Furuta was also a member of the Japan national team and played in the 2001, 2002, and 2006 World Baseball Classics. Furuta is currently the manager of the Chiba Lotte Marines. Atsuya Furuta was a two-time Central League MVP and a two-time Japan Series MVP.
2. Furuta was also a member of the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame. 3. He played for the Yakult Swallows for 13 seasons and retired in 2006. 4. Furuta was a powerful hitter who helped lead the Swallows to two Japan Series titles.
45. Kazuhiro Yamauchi
Career
- Batting average: .292
- Home runs: 396
- RBI: 1,286
- 1960 Pacific League MVP
Yamauchi was a highly successful outfielder in Japan during the 1950s and 1960s. He batted right and threw right-handed. Yamauchi was known for his strong batting and throwing abilities.
Yamauchi was inducted into the Japan Baseball Hall of Fame in 1976. Yamauchi died of a heart attack at the age of 76 in 2009. Yamauchi was a successful player and manager in his career. Yamauchi was a member of the Japan national team and won a gold medal in the 1964 Olympics.
Yamauchi was also a member of the Japanese baseball team that won the World Cup in 2009. Yamauchi was diagnosed with cancer in late 2013 and passed away in 2014.
46. Koji Yamamoto
Career
- Regular season, 2x Central League MVP (1975, 1980), NPB Batting Champion (1975), 4x NPB Home Run Champion (1978, 1980, 1981, 1983), 3x NPB RBI Champion (1979–1981), 3x NPB On-bases Champion (1979, 1980, 1983), 10x NPB Best Nine Award (1975, 1977–1984, 1986), 10x NPB Golden Glove Award (1972–1981), 14x NPB All-Star Selections (1973–1986), 2x NPB All-Star Game MVP (1975, 1983), Hiroshima Toyo Carp #8 retired, , Records, , 5x Over 40 Home runs (1977–1981), 9x Over 30 Home runs (1975, 1977–1984), 6x Over 100 Runs batted in (1977–1981, 1983), 5-years consecutive seasons over 40 Home Runs (1977–1981), 8-years consecutive seasons over 30 Home Runs (1977–1984), 13-years consecutive seasons over 20 Home Runs (1974–1986), 5-years consecutive seasons over 100 Runs batted in (1977–1981), 17-years consecutive seasons over 100 Hits (1970–1986), Hitting for the cycle (April 30, 1983), 9-Consecutive Hits (July 6–8, 1972), 302-Consecutive Plays with No error (1975), 872-Consecutive Games (1976–1983), 11x Grand Slams (1972,1977,1978,1980–1984)
Yamamoto is a former outfielder and manager for the Japan national baseball team. He made his NPB debut with the Hiroshima Toyo Carp in 1969 and played for the club until 1986.
Yamamoto is a two-time NBP MVP and is the second player in NPB history to record over 1,500 hits, 500 home runs and 1,000 RBIs. He served as manager for the Japan national baseball team in the 2013 World Baseball Classic.
Yamamoto is a member of the Japan Baseball Hall of Fame. Yamamoto is a television commentator for NPB games. He is married to former Japanese pop singer Yuko Nakamaru. Yamamoto is a philanthropist and has donated money to charities supporting children with cancer and the homeless.
Yamamoto is a native of Hiroshima, Japan. Koji Yamamoto was a two-time Japan National League MVP, and a league champion with the Hiroshima Toyo Carp in 1991. Yamamoto played in the majors with the Hiroshima Toyo Carp from 1986-92, hitting .
316 with 14 home runs in 287 games. Yamamoto returned to Japan in 1993, and helped lead the Toyo Carp to the Japan League title in his first season back.
Yamamoto was appointed manager of the Toyo Carp in 2001, and held the position until 2005. Yamamoto was appointed manager of the Japan national team in 2013, and led the team to the World Baseball Classic championship in 2016.
47. Hiroyuki Yamazaki
Career
- 5x Best Nine Award winner (1969-1971, 1974, 1980), 3x Golden Glove Award (1977, 1980-1981), 11x NPB All-Star (1969-1970, 1972-1977, 1980-1981, 1983), 2x NPB batting average leader (1969, 1974), Hit for the cycle on August 14, 1971, Meikyukai member
Hiroyuki Yamazaki was a second baseman and shortstop in the Japanese Professional Baseball League. He played for the Tokyo Orions from 1965-1984 and for the Seibu Lions in 1984.
Yamazaki was a prolific hitter, batting over .270 in his career and hitting 2,081 hits in all. Yamazaki was a decent fielder, though he never won a Gold Glove and was not considered one of the league's top second basemen.
Yamazaki is best known in the United States for his role in the 1989 World Series. As a member of the Seibu Lions, Yamazaki pinch-hit for an injured Hiroyuki Nagasawa in the decisive Game 5 and hit a two-run homer off Dennis Eckersley to help the Lions to a 4-1 victory.
Yamazaki retired from professional baseball after the 1984 season. He now lives in Japan and is an athletic director for a high school.
48. Taira Fujita
Career
- 7× Central League Best Nine Award (1967, 1969–1971, 1973–1974, 1981), 3× Central League Diamond Glove Award (1973, 1975, 1981), Comeback Player of the Year (1981), 8× NPB All-Star (1967, 1969, 1971, 1973–1976, 1981)
Taira Fujita was a highly respected infielder and manager in Japan during the 1970s and 1980s. Known for his powerful bat and solid defensive play, Fujita was a key player on some of the country's most successful teams.
Fujita made his debut with the Hanshin Tigers in 1966 and spent the majority of his career with the club. He eventually amassed 2,064 hits and 207 home runs in NPB play. After retiring as a player, Fujita served as manager of the Hanshin Tigers and the Kintetsu Buffaloes, among other teams.
He is remembered as a respected leader and player-manager. Fujita was born in Wakayama prefecture in 1947 and died in 2014 at the age of 70. Fujita was a powerful slugger in his playing days and helped lead the Hanshin Tigers to a number of championships.
He also proved to be a competent manager, guiding the team to two league championships during his tenure. After retiring from playing, Fujita took up coaching with the Tigers and helped them to another two league championships. He is now a batting coach for the Japanese national team.
Final Words
Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) is the highest level of professional baseball in Japan. The best players in NPB history are considered to be those who have had the greatest impact on the game.
These players have helped to make NPB one of the most popular and respected professional sports leagues in the world.
