Hiro has a huge passion for the game.  Injuries while in high school in Japan derailed his career.  However, he later came on his own to the USA – despite understanding no English at the time – and got back into the game, first in collegiate summer leagues and then at two NAIA schools – San Diego Christian and Southwestern College.

After the 2019 season in the Czech Extraliga, Hiro began training even harder.  By regularly working with a fitness expert, he has gained nearly 20 pounds and become significantly stronger and faster.  That and work on his pitching mechanics has helped his velocity improve to the high 80s (mph) overhand and the mid-80s (mph) when throwing with a submarine motion.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, Hiro has regularly been throwing live batting practice to players from affiliated teams to keep his arm in shape and his skills sharp.

Career Highlights

• Played college baseball in the USA

• Played in the highly competitive Czech Extraliga, which features the best Czech batters, as well as imports.  Some of those had minor league experience in the USA.

• Selected to the all-star team in Southern California Collegiate Baseball League

• (Velocity – in mph) Fastball – mid to high 80s, Curveball – high 60s, Slider – mid-70s, Sinker – high 70s.

Overseas Goals

“I believe that this is just the beginning of my professional baseball journey because I now feel more comfortable throwing with an underhand motion.  I have been through many ups and downs while living in other countries, but those obstacles gave me opportunities to grow and become stronger. I have a true passion for my baseball dream.”