Revolutionizing Career Paths for High School Baseball Players: Rikuu Nishida Reaches MLB via US College Baseball

Athlete Brand Japan, a firm specializing in US college sports study-abroad programs, announced that Rikuu Nishida has reached the Major League Baseball level with the Chicago White Sox, recording his first MLB hit on May 25, 2026. This marks the first instance of a Japanese high school graduate progressing through US college baseball to be selected in the MLB draft and eventually rising from the minor leagues to the MLB.

For 23 years, Athlete Brand has advocated for creating new career paths for Japanese high-school athletes. Nishida's journey serves as a historic realization of this model. After graduating high school in Japan, Nishida attended Mt. Hood Community College before transferring to the University of Oregon (NCAA Division 1). During his collegiate career, he recorded 25 stolen bases and 67 runs. He was selected by the White Sox in the 11th round of the 2023 MLB Draft. Nishida credited his journey to an offer he received after hitting a triple during a tryout program, stating, "I have reached where I am today thanks to that hit."

High school athletes grow at different rates, and their evaluation varies. The traditional paths of Koshien and NPB are not the only options. By changing environments and continuing to develop, players can open doors to the world. US college sports study-abroad programs offer experiences that connect athletes with people worldwide through baseball, establishing a new, iconic career path for Japanese baseball players.