Kojiro Ikegaya, former Hiroshima Carp legend, dies at 74

Kojiro Ikegaya, a prominent former professional baseball pitcher and coach, passed away on October 29, 2026, at the age of 74 due to multiple myeloma. Ikegaya was a central figure during the Hiroshima Toyo Carp’s first golden era, contributing significantly to the team’s first league championship in 1975 with 18 wins. In 1976, he achieved 20 wins, earning both the most wins title and the prestigious Sawamura Award.

Known for his unique, rhythmic pitching style often described as the “seesaw” or “gikkobattan” form, Ikegaya was a beloved figure in Japanese baseball. Following his retirement in 1985, he transitioned into coaching, serving the Hiroshima Carp and the Yomiuri Giants, where he was highly regarded by managers such as Shigeo Nagashima. He also worked extensively as a baseball commentator.

Colleagues and fans have expressed deep sorrow. Former teammate Koji Yamamoto described him as a kind and well-loved individual, while Hiroshima Carp OB Chairman Yutaka Ono noted his status as a representative figure of the baseball world. To honor his legacy, the Hiroshima Carp players wore mourning bands during practice at Mazda Stadium, and a half-mast flag was raised.