Keiichi Yabu: A Veteran Pitcher Across Continents

Keiichi Yabu, born on September 28, 1968, in Mihama, Mie, Japan, is a former professional baseball pitcher who showcased his talent in both Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) and Major League Baseball (MLB). Yabu began his career with the Hanshin Tigers in 1994, earning Central League Rookie of the Year honors. Over 11 seasons in Japan, he accumulated 84 wins, 106 losses, and a 3.58 ERA, solidifying his reputation as a reliable pitcher.

A memorable moment in Yabu's career occurred on May 30, 2008, while playing for the San Francisco Giants. He entered a game against the San Diego Padres with runners on first and second and no outs. On his very first pitch, Kevin Kouzmanoff grounded into a triple play—a rare and thrilling feat. Yabu continued to pitch two additional hitless innings, making the game unforgettable for fans.

In MLB, Yabu played for the Oakland Athletics in 2005 and the San Francisco Giants in 2008. Across 100 games, he recorded a 7–6 win-loss record, a 4.00 ERA, and 92 strikeouts in 126 innings pitched. His career highlights reflect his adaptability and skill, leaving a lasting impression in both Japanese and American baseball.

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