Why Is American-Born Lars Nootbaar Playing Alongside Shohei Ohtani for Japan in the 2023 World Baseball Classic?

Team Japan has been a dominant force in the 2023 World Baseball Classic. They were unbeaten in Pool B and cruised past Italy in the quarterfinals. They faced stiff competition in the semifinals against Mexico but were able to pull through. Shohei Ohtani, Munetaka Murakami, and Masataka Yoshida are some of their stars who have excelled, as expected. But there is one star that has exceeded expectations and set the World Baseball Classic ablaze with his sensational plays. This is none other than Lars Nootbaar. 

The American-born St. Louis Cardinals outfielder has excelled for Japan, putting on sensational displays of determined fielding and batting. But many have wondered how he is playing for Team Japan despite being born in El Segundo, California. 

Lars Nootbaar is able to play for Team Japan because his mother is Japanese

Despite being born in America, Lars Nootbaar draws some of his heritage from Japan. His mother Kumiko Nootbaar is from Higashi-Matsuyama, Saitama Prefecture. This made him eligible to play for Samurai Japan due to his roots. He is the first non-Japan-born player to ever represent the Japanese National team. His full name is actually Lars Taylor-Tatsuji Nootbaar, which gives away a bit more about his mother’s heritage. 

Nootbaar has fit in very well with Team Japan, embodying their hard-working and determined mentality. Furthermore, he has been a star for the team at the centerfielder position, pulling off stunning defensive plays. Nootbaar has batted well too, coming up with some big hits. 

Read More: Mega-Star Shohei Ohtani Has a Post-game Update Alongside Lars Nootbaar After a Massive Win in World Baseball Classic

But most importantly, he has been accepted by fans and teammates alike. When he comes up to bat, fans will call out ‘Nooot’ with great enthusiasm. His pepper grinder celebration has also gained popularity amongst his teammates, symbolizing hustling and grinding for every play. Nootbaar himself has spoken about the experience.

Nootbaar has enjoyed playing with Shohei Ohtani and his Japanese teammates

During a recent interview, Lars Nootbaar opened up on the experience of representing Japan. He talked about the coaches and playing alongside stars like Shohei Ohtani, Munetaka Murakami, and Masataka Yoshida among others. According to The Japan Times, Nootbaar said, “It’s been unbelievable. I’m surrounded by a bunch of talent, a lot of guys that will probably eventually be in the big leagues and have a lot of big-league success. So just being part of the team has been a lot of fun, enjoying the ride with these guys. Great teammates, great coaches, everything.” 

WATCH THIS STORY:  Japanese Two-Way Baseball Star Shohei Ohtani Hits 100th Major League Homer

Fans will get to see Nootbaar and Japan play in the WBC Finals after a stunning comeback win against Mexico in the semifinals. What do you think about the fact that Lars Nootbaar is representing Team Japan at the World Baseball Classic? Kindly share your thoughts in the comments below.