Genki Ishigaki Set for NPB Debut After Stellar U-18 World Cup Campaign
Sports correspondent: Imran Sohail
Japanese pitching prospect Genki Ishigaki is set to make his Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) debut on Thursday, September 17, after making a strong impression at the 2025 WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup.
The 19-year-old right-handed pitcher is expected to start for the Chiba Lotte Marines against the Rakuten Golden Eagles at ZOZO Marine Stadium.
Marines manager Saburo Omura, a former player who won the Japan Series with Chiba Lotte, confirmed that Ishigaki is expected to take the mound.
Ishigaki Impressed at U-18 World Cup
Ishigaki was one of Japan’s key relief pitchers during the 2025 WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup.
He appeared in three games and worked 7.1 innings, giving up just one run while recording a 0.95 ERA and seven strikeouts.
The young pitcher recorded saves in Japan’s victories over Korea during the Opening Round and the United States in the Super Round.
He also featured in the championship game against the United States, although Japan ultimately finished with the silver medal.
Ishigaki’s fastball reached 97.5 miles per hour, or approximately 157 kilometres per hour, highlighting his ability to generate significant pace.
Marines Pick Ishigaki in First Round
The Chiba Lotte Marines selected Ishigaki with their first-round pick in the 2025 NPB Amateur Draft.
His first professional season has included both promising performances and challenging moments.
The 19-year-old appeared in 18 games, including two starts, and struck out 32 batters over 20 innings.
That figure equates to more than 14 strikeouts per nine innings.
However, he also gave up 19 hits and issued 27 free passes through walks and hit-by-pitches during his first professional campaign.
NPB Debut Against Rakuten
Ishigaki will now have the opportunity to make his first appearance in Japan’s top professional baseball league.
The Marines will host the Rakuten Golden Eagles at ZOZO Marine Stadium on Thursday.
Both teams are currently outside the Pacific League postseason race, making the game an opportunity for Ishigaki to gain valuable experience at the professional level.
Chiba Lotte entered the matchup with a 57-65 record and three draws, while Rakuten had recorded 47 wins, 78 losses and one draw.
Ishigaki’s debut will be closely watched after his impressive international performances at the U-18 level and his selection in the first round of the NPB draft.
