Seiichiro Kiyohara, the son of former baseball star Kazuhiro Kiyohara, faced disappointment during the recent draft when his name was not called. This event sparked speculation about his future, with close observers, including his coach Tetsuya Horii, sharing insights about Kiyohara's mindset following the draft. It leads many to wonder if Kiyohara may step away from baseball altogether.
On draft day, excitement filled the room at Keio University’s Yujiro Memorial Hall, where Kiyohara and his peers had gathered, unsure of their futures. Initially seated between his coach and fellow aspiring professional player Haruki Mizutori, Kiyohara remained hopeful as the first few rounds unfolded. Unfortunately, as time passed and the rounds went by, it became increasingly clear his name was not among the picks. Following the completion of the fourth round, reports indicated the atmosphere had shifted among the attendees, as the anticipation dwindled and fatigue set in among reporters and team representatives.
“I had communicated with him to prepare for the possibility of being overlooked,” recalled Horii. “I wanted him to maintain his focus on training and the upcoming challenges.” Kiyohara did, continuing to practice diligently for the key matches ahead.
Despite the buzz surrounding Kiyohara—whose performance included two home runs during his last league games—reality hit hard when teams not only bypassed him but also fellow athletes already on the radar.
Horii later commented, “I believe Seiichiro will likely choose to retire from baseball. The hints I picked up from our conversations suggest he is ready to end his baseball chapter after the upcoming matches.” Kiyohara himself had expressed interest previously in pursuing opportunities within independent leagues, signaling his desire to explore his options beyond traditional routes.
Coming from such renowned baseball lineage posed its challenges, particularly the weight of expectations associated with the Kiyohara name. The anguish of potentially disappointing family, especially with his father’s legacy hanging overhead, has led Seiichiro to contemplate stepping away from the sport, as hinted by Horii: “Once he feels he has concluded his role within the family legacy, he may want to pursue his own path.”
The aftermath of the draft also revealed the complexity of the selection process. According to scouts and analysts, several factors contribute to decisions surrounding draft picks, such as timing and development potential, rather than strictly performance metrics. Some scouts have indicated, “If Kiyohara had displayed the level of skill they were seeking, it might have been different.” Nonetheless, others reaffirmed belief it’s not merely about lack of talent—the timing may just not have aligned this year.
Despite the disappointment, Kiyohara’s prospects are not entirely bleak. Horii noted several teams have reached out, expressing their interest, particularly from independent leagues and even offers to join corporate teams. Yet, Kiyohara has chosen to reject these opportunities for now, preferring to conclude his college baseball experience on his own terms.
Reflecting on his upbringing, Kiyohara’s connection to baseball runs deep. It was both a source of inspiration and familial pressure. Kazuhiro Kiyohara, Seiichiro's father, had faced his own tumultuous encounters with fame. The younger Kiyohara has repeatedly expressed his desire to carve out his own identity, distinct from being merely “Kazuhiro’s son.” While he has demonstrated potential, he remains hesitant to define himself solely through the lens of his father’s success.
The complexity surrounding Kiyohara’s potential retirement also includes personal reflections on what it means for him to pursue his passions independently. “I believe he wishes to move on with his life,” said Horii. “He’s contemplating what to do next—what does he truly want for himself?” This introspection emphasizes how Kiyohara views his baseball career not just as sports but as part of his overall life direction.
Even as Kiyohara takes time considering his options, he remains dedicated to finishing strong during the final season. “I aim to make the most of my college experience,” he said earlier this year, showcasing his determination to excel to the end. While doors and opportunities persist, they shift every day, and decisions about his future become increasingly pressing as he grapples with expectations, aspirations, and identity.
Finally, as time advances, many hope for Kiyohara to make decisions not shackled to legacy. Perhaps the most rewarding outcome would see him continuing his baseball career on his own terms, underscoring his own desires and talents amid the weight of expectation. Regardless of the decision, Kiyohara's story remains compelling, and fans will be eager to follow every step he takes.
