Shoki Oda draws MLB interest amid U-18 Asian Championship performance

High school baseball standout Shoki Oda, a right-handed pitcher from Yokohama High School capable of throwing 157 km/h, is drawing significant attention during the U-18 Asian Championship and regarding his future professional career.

In the current U-18 tournament, Japan has advanced to the super round after a perfect first-stage performance. Coach Atsushi Hirakawa indicated that Oda, who has not yet pitched in the tournament, may be utilized as a closer, with the possibility of pitching in three consecutive days against South Korea, Taiwan, and in the final. His ability to do so depends on strict pitch count limitations.

Beyond the tournament, Oda is reportedly considering Major League Baseball (MLB) as a career path. Unlike the Japanese professional draft system, the MLB international amateur free agency rules would allow Oda to negotiate directly with teams and potentially secure higher signing bonuses. Reports suggest the Los Angeles Dodgers are a leading candidate due to their development system and existing Japanese presence, though the New York Yankees have also shown interest.