[Seibu] Sophia University’s Yuma Masaki, ranked 6th in the development team, has decided to join the team, becoming the university’s first NPB player. He has also received an offer from MLB, but he says, “I want to make a mark in Japan.”
Sports Hochi
2025.10.24(金) 15:23
Seibu Yuma Masaki pitcher (4 years, Redmond High School), a sixth-round draft pick in the developmental draft from Sophia University, held a press conference at the school in Tokyo on April 24.
This is the first time in the history of the club, which was founded 109 years ago, that he has been selected in the NPB draft. He expressed his joy, saying, “I’m honestly happy,” and indicated his intention to join the team.
On the day, he celebrated the moment of his selection with his teammates on campus. “They were even more excited than I was, so I was grateful and happy. Seeing that made me even happier.” The moment his name was called, there was a celebration. He shared his joy with the teammates he had spent four years with.
A sharp fastball with a maximum speed of 153 km is his right-hander. Born in Yokohama City, he spent his childhood and high school years in the United States due to his father’s work. The university’s baseball division, which passed the quota for returnees, belongs to the third division of Toto University baseball, and it is difficult to say that it is a privileged practice environment. It takes 2 hours and 30 minutes one way from home to Hadano, where the ball park of the same department is located. pitcher Since the coach is absent, I have come this far by self-study. Regarding being able to baseball in a high-level environment, he said, “I think there are a lot of things I really don’t understand, and I think everything I do is new (for me), so I want to do everything.”
He was also offered a minor league contract by MLB, but he expressed his desire to play in the NPB, saying, “I want to make a mark in Japan.” He was relieved when he was selected by Seibu, who “came to see me with the greatest enthusiasm.”
His goal is to become “pitcher pitcher people want to use if it helps them win.” “I’m not quite there yet in terms of ability, and there’s still a lot I need to do. I want to get back on my feet and keep working hard.” Now, he’s on his way to becoming Sophia University’s first NPB player. This dream story is just the beginning. (Kitamura Yui)
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