Inspirational Pitcher Kazuki Mishima Retires After 13-Year Career with Yokohama DeNA BayStars

Yokohama DeNA BayStars pitcher Kazuki Mishima, 35, announced his retirement from professional baseball on the 17th. He draws the curtain on a 13-year career that began when he turned pro, with the announcement fittingly made on the 17th, a nod to his jersey number “17.” Mishima consistently inspired fans with his strong spirit, overcoming hardships such as returning to the mound after battling a nationally designated intractable disease.

In a statement released through the team, Mishima expressed his gratitude: “I have decided to retire. I am deeply indebted to everyone for the past 13 years since 2013. I will never forget the support from everyone involved with the Yokohama DeNA BayStars and the passionate cheers from the fans, who stood by me.” He reflected on his professional baseball career, stating, “It was a very intense and long 13 years.”

Mishima joined DeNA in 2013 as a second-round draft pick. He played various roles, including starter, middle reliever, and closer, recording a total of 37 wins and 42 saves. His return to the mound despite suffering from an intractable disease particularly inspired many teammates and fans. Praise poured in, with comments like, “He showed that even with an intractable disease, one can return to the mound, which became a ray of hope for many players, including pitcher Fuku.”

On social media, messages of farewell flooded in, such as “Mishii, thank you for your hard work,” “Thank you for so many memories,” and “Thank you for continuing to pitch with all your heart, even in difficult situations and when the team was struggling.” Fans expressed deep gratitude for his dedicated attitude and play, with comments like “I loved his courageous pitching” and “13 years with the BayStars through and through.”

Regarding his future activities, although the team offered him a position, he indicated his intention to pursue a new path: “I plan to step outside for now, study how I can give back to baseball and everyone, and take on various challenges, including those related to intractable diseases.” His retirement ceremony is scheduled to be held during the exhibition game against the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks on Saturday, March 14.

Pitcher Kazuki Mishima, loved by Yokohama fans, will have his soulful pitching and his unwavering spirit in the face of adversity remain in the hearts of many people for years to come.

The context

Kazuki Mishima is a veteran right-handed pitcher who played his entire 13-year professional career for the Yokohama DeNA BayStars in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), Japan's highest level of baseball. His jersey number, 17, makes the announcement on the 17th a symbolic gesture common in Japanese sports.

A key aspect of his career is his battle with a