Masataka Yoshida has had his moments during his career in Japan, but for most Boston Red Sox fans he's still a new face. He's an unknown. He's doing his best to change that though.
Yoshida has been essential to Japan's run through the World Baseball Classic, holding down the middle of the lineup and providing a necessary spark at times. Tonight was no different.
With Mexico leading 3-0, Yoshida came to the plate in the bottom of the seventh inning with two runners on. He fought off a few pitches before taking a changeup and hitting it to right field. It simply kept carrying, tying the game.
MASATAKA YOSHIDA TIES THE GAME IN THE 7TH! #WorldBaseballClassic pic.twitter.com/a7COW1167M
— World Baseball Classic (@WBCBaseball) March 21, 2023
The swing also pushed Yoshida to 13 RBI for the tournament (this being his sixth game). That total not only leads all players (Trea Turner is second with Randy Arozarena third) but sets a new WBC record, eclipsing the 12 RBI that Wladimir Balentien had for the Netherlands in 2012.
MASATAKA YOSHIDA NOW HAS 13 RBI
— Sarah Langs (@SlangsOnSports) March 21, 2023
THAT'S THE MOST IN A SINGLE WBC
SURPASSING 2017 Wladimir Balentien, NED: 12
Yoshida, 29, signed a five-year deal with Boston this winter after a seven-year career in Japan where he hit .327/.421/.539.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!