◆ Sports Hochi Journalist Column "From Ryogoku"

It might be the "secret ingredient" for his improved performance. While Rakuten Eagles pitcher Kosei Shoji (25) is racking up strike outs, he is also attracting attention from fans and teammates with an unexpected special talent.

That is an impression. His imitations, which capture the characteristics of the pitch forms of colleagues like Kenta Maeda and Koja with a bit of exaggeration, are excellent. When asked for the secret, he flashed a mischievous smile and said, 'I show one specific point in an exaggerated way, and then just let the rest flow. I guess it's just natural talent.'

It would be premature to dismiss it as a mere performance to lighten the mood. The right-hander, who has been throwing the white ball since childhood while observing the forms of professional baseball players he admired, speaks in all seriousness. "I think imitation is important because it leads to new insights. Even now, I watch the movements of good pitchers and sometimes try to mimic things like their sense of rhythm."

For example, he said he made a discovery when imitating Hayakawa's pitching form. "I realized his control is good because his head doesn't move." He uses his sharp observational skills to capture characteristics, then traces the movements with his own body to simulate the sensation. "By 'putting' someone else into myself, I can see parts that I wouldn't feel just by doing it on my own." Imitation is a shortcut to improvement. He embodies those words.

"Of course, that's on top of having my own core identity," he added at the end, showing his pride as a professional. This season, he achieved a career-high 9 wins and won the title for most strike outs with 171. The spirit of inquiry hidden within his playfulness supports his growth. Children chasing white balls will be absorbed in imitating the figure of Shoji, who has become an overwhelming presence—such a future is not far off. (Rakuten Eagles reporter, Kota Miyauchi)

Kota Miyauchi. Joined the company in 2022. Covered The Giants from 2023 to 2025. Has held his current position since 2026.