Kyle Higashioka

Professional Athlete

Baseball Catcher / New York Yankees / MLB Player

Born: April 20, 1990 | Position: Catcher | Bats/Throws: R/R

Professional Athlete

Analyst Note: Kyle Higashioka is known for his defensive skills as a catcher and has been a reliable backup for the Yankees since his MLB debut in 2017.

Career Highlights

1MLB Debut

Made MLB debut with the New York Yankees on April 10, 2017.

First game against Baltimore Orioles.

2First Home Run

Hit first MLB home run on September 23, 2018.

Three-run homer against Baltimore Orioles.

3Defensive Skills

Known for excellent pitch framing and game calling.

Works well with Yankees pitching staff.

4Three-Homer Game

Hit three home runs on September 16, 2020.

First Yankees catcher to achieve this since 1999.

5Postseason Experience

Appeared in multiple playoff series with Yankees.

ALDS and ALCS appearances.

Analyst Note: Higashioka has developed into a valuable defensive specialist and occasional power hitter for the Yankees organization.

Career Statistics

1Batting Average

Career batting average: .210 (through 2023 season)

Shows improvement in recent seasons.

2Home Runs

Total MLB home runs: 35

Career-high 10 HR in 2021 season.

3Fielding Percentage

Career fielding percentage: .994

Excellent defensive catcher.

Notable Achievements

1Yankees Organization

Drafted by New York Yankees in 2008 (7th round).

Spent 9 years in minor leagues before MLB debut.

2Team USA

Played for Team USA in 2023 World Baseball Classic.

Backup catcher for championship team.

3Minor League Honors

2016 Eastern League All-Star.

With Double-A Trenton Thunder.

4Defensive Specialist

Known for working well with Yankees pitchers.

Particularly effective with Gerrit Cole.

Analyst Note: Higashioka's persistence through the minor leagues and development into a MLB-caliber catcher is an inspiring story of dedication.