Who is Masataka Yoshida? Meet Team Japan's WBC star setting Red Sox hearts alight with electric performances

Masataka Yoshida is a popular outfielder for the Boston Red Sox. As one of the top imports from Japan in MLB, he is gradually becoming one of the most sought-after baseball players in the world. He has been representing his home country Japan in the WBC.

He was born on July 15, 1993 in Fukui, Japan. He played college baseball for Aoyama Gakuin Univeristy.

From 2016-2022, Masataka Yoshida played for the Orix Buffaloes in the Nippon Baseball League. During his tenure there, he had a batting average of .290 with 10 home runs and 34 runs batted in 63 matches.

Additionally, in Game 5 of the 2022 Japan series, he hit two home runs and a walk-off in a win against the Tokyo Yakult Swallows.

Yoshida signed a five-year contract with the Red Sox to seal his move to the major leagues. Since then, he has been playing for Samurai Japan and winning hearts of the audience with his electric performances. While plying his tarde in the NPB, Yoshida earned for himself many fans with his electrifying performances.

He was ranked 87th in the Baseball America list of Top 100 prospects in the baseball world. Although his ranking is low for now, it is expected that Yoshida will rise up the rankings with his stunning performances.

Masataka Yoshida's performance in the World Baseball Classic (WBC)

Masataka Yoshida #34 of Team Japan hits a single against Team Mexico during the second inning during the World Baseball Classic Semifinals at loanDepot park on March 20, 2023 in Miami, Florida

Yoshida had an excellent World Baseball League (WBC) 2023. He represented his home team Japan in the WBC 2023. He set a record in the tournament with 13 RBIs. His performance helped Japan beat Mexico and reach the finals of the tournament where they will face Team USA.