Shintaro Yokota was born on September 6, 1995, in Japan. From a young age, he showed a talent for sports, particularly baseball. His father, Masashi Yokota, was a former professional baseball player for the Lotte Orions, so it was no surprise that Shintaro developed a love for the game early on. When he was just 3 years old, his family relocated from Hioki to Kagoshima Prefecture, where his passion for baseball continued to grow.
Yokota began playing softball in the 3rd grade, showcasing his natural ability for the sport. His skills quickly caught the attention of scouts, and he was eventually drafted by the Hanshin Tigers straight out of Kagoshima-Jitsugyo High School. In the 2013 Nippon Professional Baseball draft, he became the team's second-draft pick, marking the beginning of his professional baseball career.
Throughout his high school career, Yokota was a standout player, known for his powerful fastball that surpassed 87 mph. He also impressively recorded 29 home runs during this time, solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the baseball world.
Yokota made his debut for the Hanshin Tigers on Opening Day of the 2016 season. As an outfielder, he quickly proved his worth on the field, showcasing his speed and agility. Throughout his career, he recorded 4 stolen bases, 14 runs, and a batting average of .191. Despite his promising start, Yokota's career was unfortunately cut short due to unforeseen circumstances.
In 2017, Yokota was diagnosed with brain cancer, a devastating blow that forced him to retire from professional baseball at the young age of 24. The treatment for his illness resulted in blurred vision, making it impossible for him to continue playing the sport he loved. Despite this setback, Yokota's resilience and determination never wavered.
During his battle with cancer, Yokota's family played a crucial role in supporting him through his journey. His mother made the selfless decision to quit her job in order to care for him full-time, providing him with the love and care he needed during this difficult time. His father also showed his unwavering support by shaving his head in solidarity with his son, who had lost his hair due to chemotherapy.
Yokota inherited the former jersey number of Shinjiro Hiyama, another outfielder for the Hanshin Tigers. Despite the challenges he faced, Yokota's legacy continues to inspire others in the baseball community. His perseverance in the face of adversity serves as a testament to his strength and determination.
Shintaro Yokota's story is a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. Though his professional baseball career may have been cut short, his impact on the sport and those around him will never be forgotten.