Naoya Masuda Hits 250 Saves—and Reveals What He Told Himself Before the Milestone

This season, determined to make a comeback

Chiba Lotte Marines pitcher Naoya Masuda, 36, reached 250 career saves, the milestone required for induction into the Meikyukai.

After entering the professional ranks as a late-round draft pick from a little-known university, Masuda built his career while overcoming adversity. He went on to win the saves title twice, in 2013 and 2021. By the start of the 2025 season, he was just seven saves away from the 250 needed for Meikyukai induction.

However, he was unable to pitch as he had hoped due to issues with his upper-body condition. He reportedly even had nights when he could not sleep because of his frustration.

Part 1: Chiba Lotte’s Naoya Masuda Reaches 250 Saves — The Difficult Road to His Historic Achievement as an Unknown Player Who Gritted His Teeth and Pressed On

“It was the worst year I’ve had since turning pro. On August 19, I pitched the ninth inning against the Rakuten Eagles with a one-run lead, but they tied the game and I blew the save. I was angry with myself for being so disappointing. I couldn’t contain my anger, and after being taken out of the game, I took it out on something behind the bench and fractured the back of my left hand. That injury resulted in me being removed from the roster, and my season ended right there.”

In the end, Masuda made just 22 appearances last season, the fewest of his career, and finished with a disappointing record of one win, four losses, and five saves.

This can’t continue. It was the words of new manager Saburo, who took over during the previous offseason, that helped Masuda regain his focus.

“I want you to start from scratch once again and lead the team.”

Masuda pushed himself as he prepared for his comeback.

“It had probably been about 10 years. During the offseason, I gave up the golf I used to play around 30 times a year and participated in the fall training camp, which is unusual for a veteran since it is primarily intended for younger players. I also started weight training, which I had avoided because I didn’t want to put on too much muscle, and rebuilt my body. I also adjusted my pitching form so that I put more of my center of gravity on my lower body. As a result, my arm strength recovered to the point where, when the ball left the fingertips of my right hand, I could hear a ‘whoosh!’ sound.”

The moment he achieved the historic milestone

After getting himself into shape for the season, Masuda surrendered the closer role to his younger teammate Rikuto Yokoyama, but he remained confident that he could get the job done whenever he was called upon. Then came the August 4 game against the Seibu Lions.

In the top of the ninth with the Marines leading by two runs, Masuda walked onto the mound amid loud cheers of “Masuda!” from the right-field stands packed with Lotte fans. He went through his usual routine, touching the brim of his cap and closing his eyes for a few seconds.

“In my mind, I repeat the names of the opposing batters and tell myself, ‘I’m going to get these three guys out. I absolutely will not back down.’”

True to his words, Masuda retired all three Seibu batters and recorded his 250th career save. Every fastball he threw that inning was clocked at 150 km/h or faster. Among those in the stadium were his family, who had continued to support him through all his difficult times.

“That day, even after we got home, the kids were incredibly excited. They had watched me struggle up close, so I think the whole family was relieved that I had finally reached 250 saves. I’m truly grateful.”

Published below is a letter written to Masuda by his eldest son, Kiki, 12. Following his father’s historic achievement, he honestly expressed his feelings, writing that he was happier than words can express and that he wanted them to win the championship with the Marines together.

Achieving such a historic milestone does not mean Masuda’s journey is coming to an end.

“I intend to pitch whenever I’m needed so that I can contribute to the team’s victories. To prepare for that, I still run 10 kilometers as part of my training.

I think a save that closes out a game is like the final scene of a movie. I see the save as playing the role of the end credits. The fans are hoping for the ending they want, so I can’t let it become a bad ending. There’s pressure, but I want to create the best possible ending.”

Masuda, who was a reserve player during his high school days, has gone on to achieve a milestone that qualifies him for induction into the Meikyukai. He will continue taking the mound to deliver the end credits that fans are hoping to see.

〈Naoya Masuda: Born in Wakayama Prefecture in October 1989. He began playing baseball in the second grade of elementary school and joined the Lotte Marines in 2012 after being selected in the fourth round of the draft out of Kwansei International University. He made an impact as a middle reliever and closer from his rookie season and became the fifth player in history to reach 250 career saves. Right-handed pitcher and batter. 179 cm, 80 kg.〉

Part 1: Chiba Lotte’s Naoya Masuda Reaches 250 Saves — The Difficult Road to His Historic Achievement as an Unknown Player Who Gritted His Teeth and Pressed On

 

From the September 11 & 18, 2026, combined issue of “FRIDAY”