Summary of Hiromi Itoh’s Career
Hiromi Itoh is a Japanese professional baseball pitcher known for his powerful fastball and strategic approach to the game. Born on August 31, 1997, in Hokkaido, Japan, Itoh has built a successful career in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). He began his professional journey with the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters (2021–present), where he quickly established himself as a dominant right-handed starting pitcher. His pitching repertoire includes a fastball reaching 150 km/h, complemented by a sharp slider and curveball, making him a formidable presence on the mound.
Career from Middle School Onward
Itoh’s baseball journey began in elementary school when he joined the local youth baseball leagues. During middle school, he played for the Hakodate East Senior League, where he refined his pitching skills. In high school, he attended Komazawa University Tomakomai High School, where he became the team’s ace pitcher. His high school career was highlighted by his strong performances in the Koshien National High School Baseball Championship, where he showcased his talent on a national stage. After high school, he enrolled at Tomakomai Komazawa University, where he continued to refine his pitching skills. His standout moment came in the Japan-U.S. University Baseball Championship, where he represented Japan and delivered key performances. In the 2020 NPB Draft, Itoh was selected by the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters as a first-round pick, securing his signing with a contract worth 100 million yen plus incentives.
Unique Traits and Memorable Moments
Itoh stands out among pitchers due to his exceptional control, which allows him to consistently throw strikes and limit walks. His slider is particularly effective, deceiving batters with its late-breaking movement. One of his most memorable performances was his rookie season in 2021, where he recorded 10 wins and a 2.90 ERA, proving his ability to excel at the highest level. His mental toughness was evident when he played a crucial role in Japan’s 2023 World Baseball Classic campaign, delivering key performances in high-stakes games. Itoh also demonstrated resilience, overcoming injuries and setbacks to maintain a long and successful career. His ability to adapt was showcased when he transitioned from university baseball’s structured approach to NPB’s fast-paced environment, adjusting his playing style accordingly. Additionally, his strong work ethic was reflected in his rigorous training routines, which included specialized drills to enhance his pitching mechanics.
Personality, Family, and Personal Life
Off the field, Itoh is known for his reserved and disciplined personality, often crediting his success to his coaches and family support. He has a deep passion for Japanese culture, often sharing his love for traditional cuisine such as sushi and ramen. His hobbies include golf, which he enjoys during the offseason. Itoh is also an advocate for mental health in sports, often discussing the importance of maintaining a strong mindset. His philanthropic efforts include donations to youth baseball programs in Japan, aiming to inspire the next generation of players. Despite his serious demeanor on the field, Itoh has a playful side, often engaging in friendly banter with teammates and sharing humorous anecdotes about his early struggles in professional baseball.
Itoh’s journey from a promising high school pitcher to an established NPB star is a testament to his dedication and adaptability. His unique pitching style, resilience, and strong personal values make him a standout figure in the world of baseball.