Three MLB-based position players on the Samurai Japan roster, including new Boston Red Sox outfielder Masataka Yoshida, began their spring training Monday with the March 8-21 World Baseball Classic looming large.
Chicago Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki and St. Louis Cardinals outfielder Lars Nootbaar also started to train before joining their national team in Japan in early March, along with Los Angeles Angels two-way star Shohei Ohtani, who began his preseason training with his team last Wednesday.
"I'm happy seeing everyone wearing the same jersey and starting without trouble," said Yoshida after his first day of team training at the Red Sox.
"There are lots of things I need to get into my head, and I'm hoping to have good communication along the way."
After getting himself into shape at his team's base in Florida through Sunday, Yoshida did well against two-time Cy Young winner Corey Kluber in batting practice.
"It was great getting to see a variety of pitches from a top pitcher," said Yoshida of the right-hander before emphasizing his focus is on joining the WBC team in top condition.
"I'll stay motivated while trying not to raise my gear at once."
The Cubs' Suzuki said he "made a good start" to spring training, having, like Yoshida, arrived at his team's base in Arizona early. The 28-year-old claimed he is keeping a close eye on the Japan team's training in Miyazaki through a livestream.
"I'm watching what sort of training they are doing. I notice there's a big audience," Suzuki said.
"I only have the WBC in my mind at the moment. There's only a sense of pleasure in having the chance to play with and against great players."
In Jupiter, Florida, Nootbaar put good swings during the Cardinals' simulated game and played right field in fielding practice.
Expected to play center field for Japan, the 25-year-old said he has to prepare himself to play "any outfield position" ahead of the WBC.
Japan plays its WBC Pool B opener against China at Tokyo Dome on March 9.
