San Diego Padres left-handed reliever Yuki Matsui has withdrawn from Japan’s 2026 World Baseball Classic roster due to a groin injury, marking the third key bullpen pitcher from his agency to exit the team.028
Matsui’s Injury and Roster Impact
Matsui completed Japan’s 30-man WBC roster as the final addition. However, during spring training in Peoria, Arizona, he experienced discomfort in the upper outer left thigh area while adjusting his workload.25 The injury prompted his agency to inform team officials, leading to his withdrawal.
Agency Response and Standby Plans
The agency’s president revealed that shortly after securing first-team roles for 21 clients on January 20 (Korean time), Matsui’s issue arose. “If additional injuries occur, our players could step up, keeping bullpen arms on high alert,” the president stated.
Matsui tested his condition in an intrasquad game on the 21st without visible problems. “I must carefully check my status moving forward,” he said afterward.
San Diego’s pitching staff director noted in an interview, “Reaching peak performance for the WBC would prove challenging.” He added, “Matsui appears committed to full recovery by tournament time.”21
Third Bullpen Withdrawal from Same Agency
Matsui joins Seibu Lions’ Kaima Taira and Hanshin Tigers’ Daichi Ishii as the third reliever from the agency sidelined by injury. Both Taira and Ishii previously withdrew due to calf and similar leg issues.293542
This agency also represents Korean national team relievers who recently signed overseas deals, highlighting shared challenges across borders.
Matsui’s Proven WBC Pedigree
Despite the setback, Matsui boasts rich international experience. He participated in the 2017 and 2023 WBC tournaments, achieving three straight selections. In 2023, he led Japan’s bullpen in innings pitched and effectiveness during the U.S. round.8
Japan targeted several MLB-caliber arms, but injuries to prospects like those up to Raisel-level talents forced reliance on this group—now depleted.
