Yuji Kaneko (36), who won the stolen base title twice and flourished as a fast-footed outfielder for professional baseball's Seibu Lions, updated his Instagram on the 19th to report the birth of his first child, a baby girl.

Starting with the words 'I have an announcement to make,' they shared the news of the birth by writing, 'The other day, our first child, a baby girl, was born. I am truly happy that both mother and child were able to complete the delivery safely,' and uploaded a photo of the baby.

Kaneko, who announced his marriage in November 2021, expressed his gratitude to his wife, saying, 'I am filled with gratitude for my wife, who worked so hard at the risk of her own life. Thank you so much for giving birth to our healthy child while going through such a difficult time.' Regarding the joy of his growing family, he wrote, 'I can't wait to see how our daughter grows up every day. I want us all to work together as a family to build an even happier home!' He concluded with a message to his fans, saying, 'I would be happy if you could continue to watch over us warmly.'

Kaneko was active from his first year joining the Seibu Lions with offensive and defensive plays that utilized his speed, and he won the title for most stolen bases in 2016 and 2019. He contributed significantly to the consecutive league championships in 2018 and 2019. He also gained popularity for his good looks and retired from active play at the end of 2024. In his private life, he announced his marriage in November 2021. His partner is a non-celebrity woman.

Yuji Kaneko. Born April 24, 1990, in Kyoto Prefecture. 36 years old. He went from Ritsumeikan Uji to Ritsumeikan University and joined the Seibu Lions as a third-round draft pick in 2012. He won the stolen base title in 2016 and 2019. 179 cm, 78 kg. Right-handed thrower and switch hitter.