Yusei Kikuchi Set to Lead Japan Against South Korea in World Baseball Classic
Tokyo, Japan – Veteran left-hander Yusei Kikuchi, of the Los Angeles Angels, is slated to start for Japan in their crucial World Baseball Classic (WBC) matchup against South Korea on March 7th. This marks Kikuchi’s debut appearance for the Japanese national team.
First-Time National Team Appearance for Kikuchi
Kikuchi, 34, has spent eight seasons playing at the highest level in Japan and seven seasons in Major League Baseball, but had never previously been selected for Team Japan. Despite a strong professional career with over 1,000 strikeouts in MLB, he was not on the roster for the 2023 WBC. He expressed his excitement, stating I’m so excited. This is the first time to be part of Team Japan. Our goal is to defend the championship.
.
Japan’s WBC Strategy and Pitching Rotation
Japan, the reigning WBC champion, has announced its initial pitching rotation. Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto will start against Taiwan on March 6th. Following Kikuchi’s start against South Korea, Tomoyuki Sugano is scheduled to pitch against Australia on March 8th. The team aims for three consecutive wins to advance to the quarterfinals.
Kikuchi’s Preparation and 2026 Goals
Kikuchi is ahead of schedule in spring training, having already pitched to hitters a week before other Angels pitchers. He recently reached 97 mph during a session, noting I have never thrown 97 (mph) in February before. I’m ready, obviously for the WBC, and the season as well.
. He acknowledged he was never satisfied with my performance last year
and prioritizes improving his performance for the Angels in the 2026 season.
Ohtani and Other Japanese Players
Shohei Ohtani will also join the Japanese national team soon, along with other MLB players. The team is approaching the tournament with a challenger’s mentality, despite being the defending champions.
FAQ
- Will Shohei Ohtani pitch in the WBC? The intention is for Ohtani to focus on hitting, but this could change.
- What is Kikuchi’s MLB experience? He has played for the Seattle Mariners, Toronto Blue Jays, Houston Astros, and Los Angeles Angels.
- When does the WBC initiate? The tournament begins on March 4th.
Japan will be looking to defend their title, and Kikuchi’s performance will be key to their success. The matchup against South Korea promises to be an early test for both teams.