MLBx, the 3-on-3 co-ed modified home run derby, has traveled the world, making stops in Mexico City, Seoul, London and -- next month -- Mumbai.
Now it's coming to Mizuho PayPay Dome Fukuoka, home to NPB's SoftBank Hawks, on November 7. The tournament's bringing some of the greatest stars of global baseball, too.
There's Daisuke Matsuzaka, who rose to fame as a teenager in the summer Koshien tournament before going on to win the 2007 World Series with the Red Sox and being named MVP of the 2006 and 2009 World Baseball Classic tournaments.
Adam Jones, who spent 14 years in the Major Leagues, one with the Orix Buffaloes, and whose leaping home run robbery in the World Baseball Classic is one of the most iconic grabs in history.
Two-time World Series winner Jonny Gomes, a Rakuten Eagles veteran and Baseball America's Winter League Player of the Year for the 2004–2005 season while playing in Mexico, returns to play in MLBx once again.
Curacao's Wladimir Balentien, who holds NPB's single-season record for home runs with 60 set in 2013, will also return and look to smash a few more home runs.
In addition, former MLB stars Kazuo Matsui, Akinori Iwamura and Dae Ho Lee will be playing in the tournament, where players earn points for home runs, target hits and defensive catches.
The event is a partnership between MLB and the U.S. Embassy in Japan and is part of the America 250 celebrations, helping to honor the century and a half of shared baseball history between the U.S. and Japan.
"MLBx showcases the energy, excitement and culture of baseball. Bringing this event to Japan for the first time is a tremendous opportunity to deepen our relationship with baseball fans in the country," said Jeremiah Yolkut, Major League Baseball senior vice president of global operations and events. “Japan and the United States share a deep and enduring connection through baseball, and we're excited to celebrate that relationship in Fukuoka alongside the U.S. Embassy in Japan, the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks and an incredible group of players and legends from both countries."
“Since baseball was introduced to Japan more than 150 years ago, America’s national pastime has connected the United States and Japan like no other sport," said U.S. Ambassador to Japan George E. Glass. "Welcoming MLBx to Japan in America’s 250th birthday year is a chance to pay tribute to Japan’s immense contributions to baseball while celebrating the game that captivates and inspires millions on both sides of the Pacific. MLBx: Fukuoka promises to be an unforgettable occasion that will thrill fans and deepen the bond between our two nations."
Tickets will be on sale starting Thursday, with more players and details to come.