ryunosuke Tsuji: The Heir Apparent Aiming to Forge Baseball’s First Third-Generation Pro
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A rising star at Riseisha High School is poised to make history, carrying the legacy of two professional baseball players and striving to become the first third-generation professional in japanese baseball history.
Osaka – Ryunosuke Tsuji, a 184cm, 88kg shortstop and captain at Riseisha High School, is rapidly becoming a focal point for scouts ahead of the 2026 draft. The second-year student isn’t just a promising athlete; he’s part of a unique lineage, with both his grandfather and father having enjoyed careers in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). This heritage fuels his ambition to break new ground and become the first player in Japan to reach the professional ranks as a third-generation baseball star.
A Family Dynasty in the Making
Tsuji’s grandfather, Tetsuya Tsuji, was a skilled outfielder for the Chunichi dragons. His father, Ryutaro Tsuji, continued the family tradition, playing for both the Orix Buffaloes and the Rakuten Golden Eagles before transitioning to a coaching role, currently serving as the farm chief coach for the Seibu Lions. Ryunosuke embodies this rich baseball history,viewing his family’s legacy not as a burden,but as a source of motivation and opportunity.
Central to Tsuji’s advancement has been the guidance of his father, Ryutaro, who emphasized the importance of “fundamentals” and “doing what you say,” particularly in the demanding position of shortstop. Ryutaro steered his son towards the infield, recognizing the critical role the position plays in a team’s success. “It’s a special position that makes the difference between winning and losing, and you can’t easily play as a regular player,” Tsuji explained, echoing his father’s sentiments.
Tsuji has clearly internalized these lessons, publicly declaring his ambition to play professional baseball and possibly even reach Major League Baseball after attending university. “After collage, I will become a professional baseball player and become a major leaguer,” he affirmed.
Leading riseisha Towards Koshien Glory
Beyond his individual aspirations, Tsuji is focused on leading Riseisha High School back to the prestigious Koshien tournament. The team, based in Osaka, faces fierce competition from rivals like Osaka Toin, and hasn’t seen portrayal at Koshien since 2023.
“No matter what, we will go to Koshien for us,” Tsuji vowed, demonstrating his commitment to his team and his leadership qualities. riseisha High School coach Akira Tada expressed confidence in Tsuji’s abilities, stating, “He is considerate and takes his work seriously. He is at the center of everything.”
Ryunosuke Tsuji’s journey continues as he refines his skills and prepares for the challenges ahead, hoping to fulfill his dream of becoming a three-generation professional baseball player and leading Riseisha back to the national stage.
Ryunosuke Tsuji Profile
- Full Name: Ryunosuke Tsuji
- Affiliation: Riseisha High School (2nd year)
- Birthplace: Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture (graduated from Mukayo Junior High School and Young Kobe suma Club)
- position: Infielder (shortstop)
- Throwing: Right pitch, right hit
- Height/Weight: 184cm, 88kg
- Main Features and Achievements: A third-generation athlete whose grandfather is Tetsuya Tsuji (former Chunichi) and father Ryutaro Tsuji (former Orix and Rakuten).Experienced with Hanshin Junior and U-15 Japan National Team. A large shortstop with rapid feet (50m in 6.2 seconds) and long hitting power.
