Kanagawa High School Baseball Championship Advances to Third Round

The 108th National High School Baseball Championship’s Kanagawa tournament entered its third round on July 14, 2026, with Kirikō Gakuen facing Sagamihara YaEi at Sagamihara Baseball Park. The match was scheduled to start at 9:00 a.m., following earlier rounds that saw Kirikō Gakuen post a 11‑0 win over a junior high opponent and Sagamihara YaEi defeat Yokohama Heimin 12‑5.

Scouts highlighted two local draft prospects during the competition. Right‑handed pitcher Zaki‑yama Nōkatsu of Sagamihara, noted for his powerful shoulder and 22 career home runs, attracted attention for his size and throwing strength. Left‑handed pitcher Shinhō Haru of Hope Hill impressed with a fastball reaching 135 km/h after substantial physical development. NPB scouts praised Zaki‑yama’s “strong shoulder” and noted that while his batting needs work, his overall athletic profile makes him a promising professional candidate.