Roki Sasaki’s Worthy Debut 160kg Most Balanced-Professional Baseball: Nikkan Sports

Professional baseball fans were waiting for him. On day 512 of the 19th draft meeting where all four teams competed, pitcher Roki Sasaki’s fastball (19) was finally unveiled. On the 12th, he pitched center pitcher in the sixth inning during open play (ZOZO Marine). He made his battle royale debut with three strikeouts, including one. The fastest 163km right arm is currently just 153km, but he proudly launched it to the top of the pros. Roki Sasaki’s story begins to move again.

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When the sound of the glove exploded on the silent marine, Roki Sasaki looked at him. At 152 km, I lost Chunichi Viciedo and I struck out. When the right foot lands on the ground, he begins to walk to the bench on the side of first base. After Kyoda and Abe’s infield groundout, they made their debut with a perfect score. If 4966 seniors greet you with warm applause and smiles, their facial expressions will relax. Behind the bench, I got excited in a whisper: “It was super fun.”

I’ve been waiting for myself more than anyone. “It was a lot of fun, and I’m so grateful to play baseball throwing it on the mound as a professional baseball player.” It’s been about a year and a half since fans looked at pitching. The song my favorite Aimyon appeared on also raised the tension. “I was very excited about the scenery seen from the mound,” he realized on his debut.

Finally it started to move. Not released in the first year of professionals. I threw 160 kg with a hit to the seat, but I couldn’t take it. A heavy load continued on the right arm and right elbow. Almost all the time to strengthen the corps accompanied by an army. Although I could hear the noise, I kept my current role. “I think last year was a very significant year,” he said.

This is not the time to remove 160 kg. He made his debut calmly, putting top priority on timing and balance. “I think the speed will improve over time, so I’m not happy with it, so it’s important to keep it low.” Even so, 11 of the 12 balls are straight balls, 9 of which weigh more than 150 kg. You can speed up at any time. Two years ago, he dropped 163kg just nine days after the first bullpen earlier in the year.

I also showed my commitment. I threw a slider, the first throw of throwing practice. Director Iguchi was surprised: “Originally, the feel of the fingertips is good. Because he is a pitcher who throws a slider from the first (practice) ball.” In high school, the first throwing practice started from a slow curve. I will penetrate. Next time, after a week, I will be in the 1st Army again. “I wish I could stick to the content little by little.” The fact that I was able to land the first step safely was of the utmost value.[Mahito Kaneko]

▽ Coach Lotte Yoshii (for Roki Sasaki’s first pitch) Today, his purpose was to stay there and show off his energetic appearance, so I’m glad he released it in a good mood.

▽ Lotte Tamura (in response to Roki Sasaki’s pitch) I think it was good that the control was good and the speed was high.