A Japanese professional baseball player known for his unique submarine-style pitching and playing for the Hiroshima Toyo Carp and San Diego Padres. He's a notable figure in Japanese baseball history.
Renowned for his impeccable pitching skills and impressive career statistics, Kazuhisa Makita is a former Japanese professional baseball pitcher who has left an indelible mark on the sports world. With a career spanning over a decade, Makita has played for several prominent teams, including the Saitama Seibu Lions, Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles, and the San Diego Padres, leaving a trail of awe-inspiring performances in his wake.
Born on November 10, 1984, Makita pursued his passion for baseball from a young age. He attended Heisei Kokusai University, where he honed his skills as a collegiate player. Despite not being drafted out of college, Makita persevered, playing for Nippon Express in the Japanese industrial leagues for several years. His hard work and dedication eventually paid off when he was selected by the Saitama Seibu Lions with their second pick in the 2010 Nippon Professional Baseball draft.
Makita made his professional debut in 2011 with the Seibu Lions, quickly making a name for himself with his remarkable pitching skills. In his rookie season, he recorded a 5-7 record and a 2.61 ERA, earning him the Pacific League Rookie of the Year honors and a spot as an NPB All-Star. This was just the beginning of his illustrious career, as he continued to impress fans and critics alike with his exceptional performances.
In addition to his success in Japan, Makita also had a stint in Major League Baseball (MLB) with the San Diego Padres. He made his MLB debut in 2018, pitching in 27 games and recording a 4.40 ERA. Makita also played for the CTBC Brothers in the Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPBL) before returning to Japan.
After retiring from professional baseball, Makita transitioned into coaching, becoming the third squad pitching coach for the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks of Nippon Professional Baseball. This new chapter in his career marks a new era for Makita, as he continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of baseball players.
Kazuhisa Makita's remarkable career is a testament to his dedication, perseverance, and passion for the sport. With a storied career that spans over a decade, Makita has left an indelible mark on the world of baseball, inspiring countless fans and players alike. His legacy continues to grow, as he embarks on his new journey as a coach, shaping the future of Japanese baseball.
39 Years Old
A Japanese professional baseball pitcher known for his unique pitching style, which features a wide range of pitches and exceptional control. He has played for several MLB teams, including the Texas Rangers and Chicago Cubs.
37 Years Old
Japanese right-handed pitcher who played for the New York Yankees, known for his exceptional control and splitter pitch. He's a two-time All-Star and has pitched in the World Baseball Classic.
51 Years Old
A dominant closer with a unique split-finger fastball, earning numerous accolades, including the 2013 ALCS MVP and a World Series championship. Noted for his exceptional control and deceptive pitching style.
51 Years Old
A Japanese professional baseball pitcher who played for the Hiroshima Toyo Carp and New York Yankees, known for his exceptional control and longevity in the sport.
45 Years Old
A Japanese baseball pitcher who played for the Boston Red Sox and won the 2007 World Series MVP, known for his unique pitching style and impressive international career.
52 Years Old
A legendary Japanese baseball player who holds numerous records, including most career hits, and is revered for his incredible speed, agility, and batting prowess.
51 Years Old
A legendary slugger from Japan who brought excitement to the MLB with his powerful hitting and clutch performances, earning him a World Series MVP award.
49 Years Old
A Japanese outfielder who played for the Chicago Cubs and Cleveland Indians, known for being the first Japanese player to hit a home run in his MLB debut.