On April 28, 2025, Kotada Atsunori, the former manager of the Yakult Swallows and a celebrated figure in Japanese baseball, appeared as a guest on Fuji TV's "Pokapoka." During the show, he shared insights about his 30-year marriage to freelance announcer Nakai Mie and reflected on his illustrious baseball career.
At 59, Kotada has made a significant mark in the world of sports, having been drafted by the Yakult Swallows in 1990 as the second overall pick. In just his second year, he became the first catcher in the Central League to win the batting title, showcasing his prowess on the field. He later made history again in 2006 by becoming a player-manager, a role that had not been seen in professional baseball for 29 years.
During his appearance on "Pokapoka," Kotada reminisced about his marriage to Nakai, who is 60 years old. The couple celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary this year, a milestone that prompted them to reflect on their journey together. Their wedding ceremony was notably televised, achieving a remarkable viewership rating of 26.1 percent, a testament to their popularity as a couple. "It was a good era," Kotada remarked, recalling the high ratings with a hint of nostalgia.
When asked about the secret to their harmonious marriage, Kotada emphasized the importance of respecting each other's careers. "I don't interfere with my wife's work; she is a top-notch announcer," he stated. He praised Nakai's skills, saying, "She is excellent at reading scripts and finishing live broadcasts on time. She has worked with big names like Sanma and Tamori without flinching," highlighting her competence and confidence in a demanding profession.
Despite their busy schedules, Kotada and Nakai make an effort to dine together about once a month. "We don't force ourselves to be together every day," he explained, adding that they have their own lives and careers to focus on. Nakai is currently involved in theater and stage performances, which often keeps her occupied in the evenings.
In a humorous exchange, Kotada revealed that when it comes to making significant purchases, Nakai is the decision-maker. "She just says, 'I've decided,' and I’m left to figure out where to transfer the money," he quipped, eliciting laughter from the show's hosts. This playful dynamic showcases the mutual respect and understanding that characterizes their relationship.
In addition to discussing his marriage, Kotada reflected on his experiences as a player and manager in professional baseball. He recounted a particularly memorable incident from 1996 when he was hit by three consecutive pitches near the head during a game against the Hanshin Tigers. This incident escalated into a brawl, a moment he described with a mix of humor and seriousness. "Baseball fans know it was the third pitch that really set things off. I remember thinking, 'The gong will sound, won't it?'" he said with a smile, recalling the tension of that moment.
Throughout his career, Kotada faced many formidable opponents, but one player he particularly admired was Matsui Hideki, who played for the Yomiuri Giants and later the New York Yankees. "Matsui was the best Japanese home run hitter of our time, and I didn't like him very much because he was so good," Kotada admitted candidly. He described Matsui's ability to read pitches and hit long balls as remarkable, noting that it forced pitchers to develop new strategies against him.
Kotada fondly remembered how Matsui, known for his cool demeanor during games, would often smile knowingly at him after making a good play. "He was the type of player who could see through various breaking balls, and as he gained experience, he became even better at it. I thought he should have gone to the major leagues sooner because he was too good for Japan," Kotada reflected, underscoring the respect he holds for Matsui's talent.
As the conversation shifted back to his personal life, Nakai sent a comment to the program praising Kotada for his ability to handle household chores and his dedication to family. She humorously pointed out that while he is capable in many areas, he tends to accumulate a lot of belongings due to his numerous hobbies, including golf, triathlons, and skiing. "We need to declutter," she remarked, to which Kotada agreed, acknowledging that his equipment takes up a lot of space.
Despite the lighthearted banter, the couple's mutual respect and admiration for each other were evident throughout the show. Kotada's reflections on his marriage and career provided a glimpse into the life of a man who has successfully balanced his professional and personal commitments.
As he continues to be a prominent figure in Japanese baseball and a loving husband, Kotada Atsunori's story resonates with many, showcasing that with respect, understanding, and a bit of humor, a successful partnership can thrive even amidst the challenges of busy lives.
