SoftBank Hawks' Kinoshita Rito Makes His Mark With Debut Bullpen Session
On January 30, 2025, Kinoshita Rito, the highly anticipated third draft pick for the Hanshin Tigers, made his first-ever bullpen appearance at Ginoza, Okinawa, as part of his preparation for the upcoming baseball season. The 24-year-old pitcher, who has been generating buzz since his selection, threw 25 pitches during the session, showcasing his skills and determination to succeed.
During the workout, Kinoshita displayed his versatility by integrating various pitches, including sliders and curves. The atmosphere was electric, with support echoing from his former university senior, Umehara, who lent his encouragement by exclaiming, "Nice ball!" as Kinoshita delivered one impressive pitch after another. The camaraderie and positivity from fellow players helped boost Kinoshita's confidence as he took to the mound for the first time.
Reflecting on his experience, Kinoshita remarked, "It felt good throwing. Nakagawa's catching was really great, which made it easy to pitch." The communication and synergy he shared with catcher Nakagawa enhanced the effectiveness of his pitches, contributing to his sense of accomplishment during this pivotal training session.
Kinoshita's performance didn't just impress his teammates, but it reignited his aspirations for the upcoming season. He paid tribute to the power of teamwork, particularly acknowledging Nakagawa’s skills, which he found to be instrumental. The synergy established on the field highlighted the importance of mutual support among players.
Not only did Kinoshita demonstrate his pitching ability, but he also exhibited enthusiasm for modern training techniques. "I'm hoping to incorporate Markerless Motion Capture technology to learn and improve," he stated, expressing his excitement about utilizing advanced technology to refine his skills. His forward-thinking attitude signals his readiness to embrace innovation for the development of his game.
The first bullpen session was more than just practice; it signified Kinoshita's commitment to growing as both a player and teammate. After the drill, he even visited local schools, where he expressed his desire to be the kind of player who inspires young fans. "I want to become the kind of player who evokes support from others," he affirmed, showcasing his humility and dedication to the sport.
With this inaugural appearance, Kinoshita is setting himself up for what fans hope will be a stellar career with the SoftBank Hawks. His work ethic, combined with his willingness to learn and evolve, bodes well for both him and the franchise. Enthusiasts will be keeping their eyes on Kinoshita Rito as he paves his way through the ranks of professional baseball, eager to see what he will achieve next.