Yusei Kikuchi Transfers to Astros from Blue Jays Showcases Hip-First Delivery and Natural Flexibility
Yusei Kikuchi, who made his first pitching appearance with the Astros from the Blue Jays, has been a big hit with his hip-first pitching technique, which allows him to strike out eight consecutive batters!
It was an impressive pitching performance.
In his debut game for the Astros, following a stunning transfer from the Blue Jays, on August 3rd (Japan time) against the Rays, Yusei Kikuchi (33) pitched 5 2/3 innings, allowing 3 hits and 2 earned runs. Although he didn’t secure a win, he showcased an exceptional performance by marking a tie for the club record with 8 consecutive strikeouts. After the game, Kikuchi spoke and showed a relieved expression.
“I thought the first pitch was crucial. I was able to create a good game, and the team won, so I’m really relieved,” said Kikuchi.
Kikuchi, now in his sixth year in Major League Baseball, has continued to hold his spot in the rotation. However, it is hard to say that his pitching has been stable. As of August 7th this season, he has 4 wins and 9 losses with an ERA of 4.67, with losses outweighing wins. Takashi Kawamura, a motion analysis expert and professor at Tsukuba University’s School of Health and Sport Sciences, explains Kikuchi’s form’s strengths and weaknesses.
“The biggest feature is his innate flexibility. With a wide range of motion and a flexible body, he can move his shoulders and chest significantly, allowing him to throw powerful fastballs. On the other hand, because his body is so flexible, there are cases where his upper body can lean in, making control difficult.”
Let’s listen to Kawamura’s explanation while viewing Kikuchi’s sequence of photos.
“In the starting motion (①), the use of the left leg and arm is unique. Normally, the arm is lifted in coordination with the leg movement, but Kikuchi lowers his arm. This movement of the legs and arms helps him focus on placing his weight firmly on his pivot foot.”
In (②), another feature of Kikuchi, the hip-first motion, is explained.
“He tilts his body towards the batter from the hips. His body twists from the upper to lower body, allowing him to build up power. During his time with the Seibu Lions, he used to sink his body lower, but now, adapting to the harder Major League mound, his center of gravity is slightly higher.”
③ This symbolizes Kikuchi’s pitching style.
“The left hand holding the ball is behind the head, and the upper body opens widely sideways from the shoulders to the chest. This is a body movement that can only be achieved with extraordinary flexibility. The chest is also well extended along the vertical axis. With such a wide range of motion, it’s natural that he can throw fastballs close to 160 km/h.”
Flexibility is also evident in ④.
‘The left arm flexes like a whip, adding extra power to the ball. The weight is firmly placed on the right leg, and by utilizing the hardness of the mound, he achieves a smooth movement.’
The issue lies in the finish, as seen in ⑤.
“The upper body tends to lean slightly towards the batter, and the head is positioned forward. This causes the line of sight to shift, making it difficult to control the ball. He should hold his body back more. Kikuchi’s lifeline is his ability to mix powerful high fastballs with low breaking balls. However, when fastballs struggle with control and breaking balls are targeted, it leads to significant hits. Correcting the forward lean of the upper body is a major challenge for achieving stable pitching. If he can overcome this, he should be able to consistently secure double-digit wins each year.”
Will Kikuchi be able to show a transformed self with his new team, the Astros?
From the August 23-30, 2024 issue of ‘FRIDAY’.
PHOTO： Taguchi Yuji
