CLEARWATER, Fla. Koyo Aoyagi has been a side-arm pitcher for as long as he can recall, and it was a necessity, he says.

"I just couldnt throw overhand, " Aoyagi joked on Friday afternoon at BayCare Ballpark, speaking through his interpreter.

At 31 years old, Aoyagi has arrived at Phillies Spring Training as a non-roster invitee. While he is expected to begin the 2025 season with Triple-A Lehigh Valley, the Phillies see potential for him to make an impact at the Major League level at some point. His addition also comes at a time when the Phillies are working to strengthen their presence in the Japanese baseball market Michael Mercado Jersey, especially after failing to lure stars like Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Roki Sasaki.

"Being on a big league mound would certainly draw attention to the Phillies, " Aoyagi said. "It could help bring in more Japanese players. That would be huge."

Aoyagi has spent nine seasons pitching in Japans Nippon Professional Baseball League NPB). Hes a three-time All-Star, with his most recent honor coming in 2022 while playing for the Hanshin Tigers. Aoyagi played a key role in helping Hanshin secure the Japan Series championship in 2023, pitching 4 2/3 scoreless innings in the Game 7 victory. He also contributed to Japan's gold medal win in the 2020 Olympics.

However, Aoyagi has also spent time in the minors in each of the last two seasons, which has motivated him to pursue a career in the U.S.

"For the past four years, Ive been in discussions with my team in Japan about playing in the States, " he explained. "Im thrilled to be here. The last few years, I havent quite been able to reach my full potential. Three years ago, I had a great season in Japan, and I still believe I have that kind of potential."

The Phillies value Aoyagis unique sidearm delivery Jordan Romano Jersey, which provides a different look from typical pitchers. Theres not a lot of data available on pitchers with his style, making him an intriguing option for the team.

"Having variety in the bullpen is always valuable, " said Phillies manager Rob Thomson. "Youre not always going to have seven guys throwing 100 mph with nasty sliders."

If Aoyagi gets a chance to pitch for the Phillies, he will become only the third Japanese player in franchise history, joining Tadahito Iguchi and So Taguchi. However, Aoyagi would be the first player the Phillies have signed directly from Japan.

Having never been to the United States before, Aoyagi is excited about the opportunity.

"There are so many different countries represented in the Major Leagues here, " Aoyagi said. "Im really excited to see how my skills translate. The last few years in Japan, I wasnt able to show my best stuff, but the Phillies still saw something in me. Thats why Im so eager to play for this team."



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