Nootbaar’s Friendly Gesture in Shibuya Draws Crowd of Fans

Sticking out his tongue and looking puzzled. It’s Lars Nootbaar (27), an outfielder for the MLB’s St. Louis Cardinals.

On December 10th, the Adidas Baseball presents Lars Nootbaar Visit Event was held at the Adidas Brand Center located in Miyashita Park (Shibuya, Tokyo), attracting many fans, including families and kids from youth baseball teams. When Nootbaar appeared wearing all-white Adidas sportswear, the venue erupted in applause.

“Nootbaar was drafted by the Cardinals in the 8th round of the 2018 MLB Draft and made his major league debut in May 2021. In Japan, he was selected for Samurai Japan in the 2023 World Baseball Classic and contributed to their world championship win. His hustle and play captured the hearts of many baseball fans. His popularity remains high, and he currently has commercial contracts with three companies, including Zoff, a glasses brand,” said a sports reporter.

A week before the event, Nootbaar announced his arrival in Japan on Instagram, receiving a warm welcome from his followers, with comments like, “Wait, you’re in Japan? I want to meet you!” and “Welcome back to Japan!”

The event was a huge success. During the talk show, Nootbaar answered questions from the youth baseball team and eagerly taught a boy how to swing a bat. Afterward, he participated in a photo session with the gathered fans, displaying excellent fan service. However, after the event ended, as he exited the venue, fans swarmed him, creating a chaotic scene. Nootbaar’s smile faded, and he appeared confused, sticking out his tongue as he got into his waiting car.

Regarding the tongue-out gesture, Nootbaar explained in a March 2023 interview with Nippon Television News, 

“Yeah, that’s something I’ve done since I was a kid. If you look at old pictures or decisive moments from my childhood, my tongue is always sticking out.”

He also mentioned that his Cardinals teammates often tease him about it. Nootbaar, who has often expressed his desire to someday play in Japan’s professional baseball league, will surely have many fans hoping to see his signature tongue-out gesture in a Japanese stadium one day.