Special Dialogue Video Released Between MLB's Yuusei Kikuchi and Otobank's Yuya Kubota

Special Video Release: Yuusei Kikuchi and Yuya Kubota

A special dialogue video featuring MLB player Yuusei Kikuchi, who represents the Los Angeles Angels, and Yuya Kubota, CEO of Otobank, will be released on February 10, 2026. This event marks a significant moment as Kikuchi is set to compete in the upcoming World Baseball Classic (WBC) where he expresses this might be his "first and last chance" due to his age. The discussion will highlight Kikuchi's insights into the fervor of the competition as he seeks to reclaim the title for Japan.

Highlights of the Dialogue

In preparation for the WBC scheduled in March 2026, Kikuchi shares his feeling that this may be the only opportunity left for him to represent Japan on the world stage. His statements reflect a deep commitment to leading his team to victory, particularly after Japan's remarkable performance in the previous tournament. His perspective as an active MLB player lends credibility to the gravity of the upcoming competition. On this occasion, the dialogue encapsulates not only the anticipation for the tournament but also the values acquired through reading.

The Value of Reading

Kikuchi has been profoundly influenced by literature throughout his youth. He speaks to the paramount importance of reading: it cultivates the ability to be kind to others. The journey of a top athlete involves grappling with challenges in both sports and life, which ultimately enhances one's empathy and imagination towards others. This aspect provides a rich layer to Kikuchi's character and philosophy as a professional athlete.

Aiming to Be the "Healthiest Pitcher"

A key topic in the dialogue is Kikuchi's aspiration to be the "healthiest pitcher in the world." In the grueling landscape of the MLB, staying injury-free is crucial. He shares insights about maintaining a professional mindset while remaining a reliable asset for his team, which includes considerations that are typically addressed by management and team executives.

Utilizing Audiobooks for Physical Care

Kikuchi has also adapted his reading habits to a more relaxed approach. As per his trainer's advice, he realizes that traditional reading can lead to eye strain and tension in the neck and shoulders, particularly during travel. Therefore, he has embraced audiobooks during his downtime to maintain peak performance while enjoying literature. The concept of “listening to books” is progressively becoming a pivotal part of his routine.

Learning from Tokugawa Ieyasu

In the dialogue, Kikuchi discusses the historical figure Tokugawa Ieyasu, sharing that he admires Ieyasu for acknowledging his weaknesses and the importance of relying on others. This mindset transforms into a modern-day athlete’s approach—acknowledging vulnerabilities and maintaining awareness even after triumphs, making it relevant to contemporary MLB players.

His Upcoming Book Project

Moreover, Kikuchi has taken a hands-on approach in writing his upcoming book, titled "I Have Fought This Way: 77 Habits to Get Closer to Your Ideal Self," which releases on February 19. Despite the ongoing season, he managed to pen over 100,000 words without a ghostwriter. His motivations for writing and the lessons learned through the process are additional layers discussed in the interview.