Returning to Japan to prepare for the Classic! Yusei Kikuchi’s live pitching and hitting practice features blazing 96 mph fastballs striking out Trout

Los Angeles Angels’ Japanese left-handed pitcher Yusei Kikuchi finished his last spring training day today and promptly headed back to Japan to meet with the Japanese squad for the World Baseball Classic preparations. During his third live batting and pitching workout, Kikuchi threw his highest count yet of 74 pitches.

Kikuchi struck out five batters and, when facing "Trout" Mike Trout, unleashed his fastest pitch at about 96 mph, generating a swinging strikeout. Kikuchi commented, "Overall, I accomplished what I wanted to do." He also gave positive feedback on his command of breaking balls.

Regarding upcoming adjustments, Yusei Kikuchi said his pitch quality has reached the standard, adding, "I still have two weeks to fine-tune and improve my accuracy."

About to leave Arizona for Japan, when asked if he feels the fans’ anticipation, Kikuchi smiled and said, "I don’t think anyone is really waiting for me." He then added, "Once I arrive, I’ll immediately join the team, but by then they’ll probably have started practicing and be close to playing exhibition games, so I want to quietly return and prepare for the WBC! Yusei Kikuchi’s live BP blazing 154 km/h fastballs striking out ‘Masu’ boosts confidence (laughs)." Finally, Kikuchi closed his spring training with the words, "I’m on my way!"