The Japanese team at the WBC, and throughout the years more generally, has been known for the strength of its starting pitching. While 2017 looks to be no exception, even with the absence of Shohei Ohtani, Japan comes into this year’s Classic featuring one of the most dynamic offensive players in the tournament. So let’s take a look at what has everyone all abuzz about Tetsuto Yamada.
The young Testuto Yamada was a star at Kosei High School, accumulating a jaw dropping .435 average while playing short.Opting to pass on college ball and try his luck in the pros, Yamada declared for the 2010 NPB amateur player draft.