Hiroshima Carp’s First-Round Draft Pick Takara Yamasato: “Giving 100% Effort Is My Strength. I’ll Never Take a Single Play Off Until I Retire”

The Hiroshima Carp selected Asia University infielder Takara Yamasato with their first-round pick in the professional baseball draft held on October 21, securing the exclusive negotiating rights to the player without competition from another team.

At 174 cm, Yamasato is relatively small by professional baseball standards, but he makes up for his stature with a strong throwing arm, excellent speed and outstanding defensive ability.

He also has an aggressive approach at the plate, capable of driving the ball for extra-base hits with a confident, full swing. His combination of skills has earned him a reputation as one of the best shortstops in college baseball.

Yamasato is expected to be a potential immediate contributor as Hiroshima looks to strengthen its middle infield heading into next season, with questions surrounding the positions previously occupied by players such as Kaito Kozono and Masaya Yano.

Takara Yamasato’s Comments

“I feel relieved to have been selected. Seeing everyone happy for me also makes me realize how fortunate I am to have been surrounded by such a great environment and such great teammates.

“Last year, my senior Taiga Saito joined the Carp, and I really wanted to play behind him in the infield. I don't just want to support Saito—I want to become a player who supports the entire team, and I'll give everything I have to help the Carp.

“‘Giving 100% effort’ is one of the core principles of Asia University, and I believe it's also one of my strengths. Professional baseball involves a long season with games played over many days, but I have no intention of ever taking a single play off—not until the day I retire. I hope the fans will pay attention to that.”