

Mitsuru Sakamoto
Life is full of chances and coincidences ミ and when combined with raw talent, hard work and a dream to succeed, the results can be very impressive. Sakamoto was a strong player at East Fukuokaユs Kyushu HS, but wasnユt amongst the very top and missed the draft into the Japanese pro system. With the help of his coach he left for America at the age of 18 to attend college, learn English and prepare for the Major League college draft. Now heユs officially signed with the Colorado Rockies and working his way up to the big leagues. Gambatte!
Nick Szasz/Editor-in-Chief
NOTE: Encounter is Fukuoka Now’s interview page. Each month an inspiring individual from the Fukuoka community is introduced. The interview is conducted and printed in Japanese. For the convenience of non-Japanese, phonetic kana characters appear above the kanji (Chinese characters) Unfortunately, this can not be replicated on our site. Click on the word ” Japanese” of the small Japanese flag to read the text in Japanese.