[Orix] First-round draft pick Atsuya Fujikawa aims to surpass Yoshinobu and Shunpei Daiichi’s feat. “I absolutely want to win when I pitch.” High school graduate rookie aiming for first win in first appearance | Pacific League

[Orix] First-round draft pick Atsuya Fujikawa aims to surpass Yoshinobu and Shunpei Daiichi, saying, “I want to win when I pitch.” A high school graduate rookie aiming for his first win in his first appearance

Sports Hochi

2025.11.23(日) 05:00

Orix Atsuya Fujikawa pitcher (18) of Nobeoka Gakuen, a first-round draft pick by the Miyazaki International Draft, signed a provisional contract in Nobeoka City, Miyazaki, on April 22. The contract is for 80 million yen and an annual salary of 8 million yen. The right-hander, who is also expected to become a future ace, has been conscious of the “surpassing Yushin and Shunpei Dai” feat since his first year as a pro.

“Now that I’ve entered the professional league, my goal is to perform well in the first team.” The last high school graduate to win his first start as a pitcher was Miura Hiroyuki, who was with Hankyu in 1978. Yamamoto (Dodgers), Miyagi, and Yamashita were also unable to do so. Orix ‘s environment allows players to seize opportunities regardless of their experience. “When I pitch, I always want to win. That will never change,” he said, revealing his strong competitive spirit.

What is essential is to build a body that can fight. Yamashita, who hopes to become an apprentice, is also stoic about his diet. It will likely start with giving up ramen, which he honestly confesses he “loves.” His fastest speed is 153 km/h. Another man with terrifying potential has joined the ranks. (Osada Toru)

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