Former Chunichi Ace Criticizes Akira Neo – Challenges of Succeeding as a Full-Time Reliever

His pitching has been somewhat unconvincing.

This season, Akira Neo (24) of the Chunichi Dragons is focusing solely on a relief role. During February’s camp, he frequently took the mound in exhibition games as a reliever but struggled with walks and multiple hits, leading to runs allowed. In three appearances in minor league games in March, he secured a win against Hanshin on March 23 but often allowed baserunners (as of that date).

“There are some unfortunate circumstances. As a high school star at Osaka Toin, he was highly sought after, joining Chunichi as a first-round pick in 2019 after a four-team bidding war. However, his position has changed frequently. Initially a shortstop, he then played outfield before transitioning to pitching, where he alternated between relief and starting roles before returning to relief again. It must be hard to stay mentally settled,” said a sports newspaper reporter.

Neither his batting or pitching stats have stood out. Over six professional seasons, he has posted a batting average of .174 with one home run. As a pitcher, he has recorded no wins, one loss, one hold, and a 3.65 ERA.

Baseball isn’t going to turn into soccer.

Neo responded to an interview with FRIDAY (September 1, 2023 issue). Regarding his frequently changing positions, he commented, “I honestly don’t mind. Baseball isn’t going to turn into soccer.” However, he likely doesn’t feel completely at ease. Some former players have also voiced harsh opinions. Former Chunichi ace Tatsuo Komatsu expressed his concerns.

“While Neo is versatile enough to play both as a fielder and a pitcher, he hasn’t delivered significant results in either role. Given that, it’s understandable that his role keeps changing. He’s an extremely serious person—so much so that he spends his days off reading books. He listens to various opinions from former players and coaches, trying to understand everything, which might actually be making it harder for him to organize his thoughts and figure out what he should focus on.”

“I once asked Neo, ‘Have you ever been to Nishiki (Nagoya’s entertainment district)?’ He replied, ‘I’ve never gone out drinking.’ While it’s a problem if a player parties too much, having some level of mental relaxation is important. For someone as serious as Neo, I feel that taking a break and refreshing his mind is necessary.”

Neo will turn 25 in April. Will he be able to succeed as a reliever this season? Komatsu continues:

“Honestly, I think it will be tough. He has played as an infielder, outfielder, and starter, but hasn’t achieved notable results, which is why he was moved to a bullpen role. There have been cases like Sadaharu Oh, who transitioned from a pitcher to a position player and found success, but I’ve never heard of a player who went from being a fielder to a pitcher and thrived.”

“If he struggles again this season, a change of environment might be a viable option—such as a trade. Chunichi is a popular team in the Tokai region, and the scrutiny from fans and former players is intense. Neo himself must feel that pressure. If he were to join Nippon-Ham, led by Tsuyoshi Shinjo—who is known for bringing out the best in his players—he might be able to play more freely and recapture the brilliance he had in high school.”

There’s no more room for position changes. Neo faces a do-or-die season as a reliever.