Following the announcement of pitchers including MLB talents Yusei Kikuchi and Yuki Matsui, Samurai Japan manager Hirokazu Ibata has selected infielder Kaito Kozono and outfielder Shota Morishita for the 2026 World Baseball Classic roster. The 25-year-olds, core members since Ibata's 2023 hiring, provide reliability amid the star-studded team.
Kaito Kozono and Shota Morishita may not carry the global name recognition of teammate Shohei Ohtani, but they are familiar staples for Samurai Japan manager Hirokazu Ibata and fans of Japanese and international baseball.
Building on last month's pitcher additions—such as Yusei Kikuchi (Los Angeles Angels), Yuki Matsui (San Diego Padres), and five NPB hurlers—the duo joins the roster as the team shapes up to defend its World Baseball Classic title. Kozono and Morishita have featured in five of Japan's last six international tournaments and exhibitions, offering Ibata proven performers in high-stakes scenarios.
Their inclusion underscores Ibata's preference for continuity alongside high-profile stars, as preparations continue for the 2026 tournament.