On the airwaves of Japan’s Fuji TV, the charismatic Makita Shinji, known for his pivotal role within the Giants franchise, took the opportunity during the 17th broadcast of the program "Poka Poka" to reflect on the dynamics of his relationship with former teammate Kiyohara Kazuhiro. This moment of nostalgia not only brought light to their shared history at PL Gakuen but also shone a spotlight on the competitive spirit ingrained within both players from their high school days.
Shinji, now the second team manager, candidly recalled the unique challenges he faced during his school years, particularly the intimidation he felt when standing alongside the towering figure of Kiyohara. With humor and sincerity, he expressed how Kiyohara’s impressive physical stature and athletic prowess left him feeling utterly overwhelmed. "I was left with nothing but despair! To see Kiyohara’s build, his raw power, and speed, it struck me hard. It was something I have never dealt with before," Shinji said, laughing at how he was outclassed by his talented friend.
The recollections didn’t stop there; Shinji also delved deep, sharing intimate details about how he initially transitioned from being cut as a pitcher to finding his way back on the mound. He described this pivotal moment vividly: "After being designated as outfield, I started questioning the norms of baseball. I realized it was common to think of pitches focusing on speed, but I soon understood: the real objective was to get outs. It forced me to prioritize control and develop my pitching strategy instead of just the raw power I thought would be enough." This turning point proved significant, allowing him to adapt and emerge as the top pitcher, leading his team to multiple appearances at Japan’s prestigious Koshien tournament.
Throughout his schooling career, Shinji demonstrated resilience. He boasted of having played five seasons at Koshien, finishing his tenure with two championships and achieving the remarkable record of 20 victories during both spring and summer tournaments—a feat unmatched in history. His comprehensive memories of those moments reflect not just the triumphs but the collaborative spirit of their youth.
What makes this interview particularly interesting is the way it highlights the less glamorous aspects of sports—the struggles and the mental fortitude needed to rise above challenges. It captivates audiences by weaving personal anecdotes with notable achievements, and offers insights beyond mere scoreboard reflections.
Shinji’s remarks during this segment serve as more than just old-fashioned reminiscing; they resonate with many aspiring athletes who may face similar self-doubt and obstacles. By openly discussing his evolution from feeling overshadowed to becoming an impactful player, he emphasizes the value of perseverance, adaptability, and learning to overcome feelings of inadequacy.
Today, as both former teammates continue to contribute to Japanese baseball—from the fields of youth leagues to professional coaches—their stories echo across generations. Their shared experiences affirm the notion of baseball as not only a game of skill but one steeped deeply in friendship, rivalry, and personal growth.
Shinji's candid engagement with the audience not only humanizes the top-tier athlete but also exemplifies the camaraderie and competition characteristic of Japan’s baseball culture. Letting fans peek through the curtain at the highs and lows of both their careers, it’s clear such dialogues are what keeps the love of the game alive.
