From University Fields to Professional Dreams: The Next Chapter for Three Japanese Baseball Players

The transition from university baseball to the professional ranks, or a modern career path, is a pivotal moment for athletes in Japan. While the dream of being drafted remains strong for many, others forge new directions. This series profiles athletes navigating this transition, focusing on Waseda University’s Yudai Oze, Nippon Sport Science University’s Kosuke Sekido and Hosei University’s Masahisa Kouda.

Waseda University’s Yudai Oze: Aiming for Another Shot with Toyota

Yudai Oze, known as a hit production machine during his time at Waseda University, has signed with Toyota Motor Corporation. Despite falling one hit short of 100 total hits in the Tokyo Six-University League and not being selected in the fall draft, Oze remains determined to reach the professional level.

He has chosen jersey number 99 with Toyota, a number he’d never worn before. Oze explained his choice, stating, I felt like the god of baseball was telling me, ‘You only have one more game left in your baseball career.’ This reflects his unwavering commitment to continuous improvement.

Oze acknowledged the initial disappointment of not being drafted, saying, I was extremely confident in the results I’d achieved in my four years at university, so it was hard to accept it at first. But, he is focused on the future, adding, I want to pursue (becoming a professional) while enjoying daily practice, and games. He aims to become Toyota’s hit production machine and once again pursue a professional contract.

Nippon Sport Science University’s Kosuke Sekido: A Comeback Story at Hitachi

Kosuke Sekido, a pitcher who once threw a fastball at 154 km/h during his time at Osaka Toin High School, faced challenges during his four years at Nippon Sport Science University due to recurring shoulder and elbow injuries. He underwent Tommy John surgery in his junior year, limiting him to just six official university games.

Sekido drew inspiration from his high school coach, Koichi Nishitani, remembering the advice, The ancient man is the horse in all things. Despite being labeled a disappeared genius online, Sekido remains undeterred, stating, My name has taken on a life of its own, so I don’t worry about it. I’ll go up from here. On the contrary, I’ve developed a rebellious spirit within myself.

Now with Hitachi, Sekido is focused on regaining his form and do my best to create a good future.

Hosei University’s Masahisa Kouda: A New Path with Barcelona

Masahisa Kouda, a left-handed pitcher from Hosei University, was a classmate of Oki Masamune (Rikkyo University – 77 Bank) at Iwaki High School. He was slated to participate in the 2020 Senbatsu tournament but it was cancelled due to the pandemic. He also experienced a close loss in the summer Koshien exchange game.

Despite throwing a fastball of 151 km/h in college, Kouda did not appear in any league games. He received offers from six companies but ultimately chose Barcelona, a fishing business in Susukino, Hokkaido.

Kouda explained his decision, stating, When you become a member of society, you can’t survive on your own. You can’t stay where you are, so I want to focus on your own growth. He is embracing this unique opportunity for self-development.

Player Profiles

• Yudai Oze: Waseda University → Toyota Motor Corporation. 172cm, 80kg, right-handed pitcher, left-handed hitter, outfielder. Graduated from Teikyo High School.
• Kosuke Sekido: Nippon Sport Science University → Hitachi, Ltd. 177cm, 81kg, right-handed pitcher, right-handed hitter. Graduated from Osaka Toin High School.
• Masahisa Kouda: Hosei University → Barcelona. 168cm, 67kg, left-handed pitcher, left-handed hitter. Born in Iwaki High School.

These three athletes exemplify the diverse paths available to Japanese university baseball players. Their stories highlight resilience, determination, and the pursuit of personal and professional growth.