Brisbane Bandits Forge Exciting Partnership with Yokohama BayStars for the 2025/26 ABL Season

BRISBANE, Australia - The Brisbane Bandits are proud to announce a new international partnership with the Yokohama DeNA BayStars of Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) league ahead of the 2025/26 Australian Baseball League season.

This collaboration marks another exciting chapter in the Bandits’ continued international growth, strengthening ties with one of Japan’s most competitive and dynamic ball clubs. The BayStars, based in Yokohama, have been a consistent force in the NPB’s Central League—showcasing strong player development and playoff-calibre performances over recent seasons. Their commitment to cultivating talent aligns perfectly with the Bandits’ own focus on excellence and development within Australian baseball.

As part of the partnership, the BayStars will send two players to join the Brisbane Bandits roster for the upcoming season: first baseman Kyosuke Mashiko and starting pitcher Hayate Nakagawa.

Kyosuke Mashiko

An offensive-minded addition to the Bandits lineup, Mashiko brings valuable NPB experience and consistent contact ability to Brisbane. The 24-year-old right-hander was drafted by the BayStars in the 5th round of the 2018 NPB Draft and has since appeared in seven top-league games between 2021 and 2023.

Standing 175 cm and weighing 86 kg, Mashiko tallied his first NPB hit during his rookie campaign in 2021, carrying a career batting average of .167 in limited appearances. His offensive potential and professional experience make him a strong contributor as he adjusts to ABL competition.

Hayate Nakagawa

Right-handed pitcher Hayate Nakagawa joins the Bandits as a starter for the upcoming season. Originally drafted in the 4th round of the 2020 NPB Draft by the Orix Buffaloes, Nakagawa has since developed into a reliable arm with the BayStars.

The 26-year-old stands at 183 cm and features an unorthodox submarine delivery that keeps hitters guessing. Across 53 professional appearances, Nakagawa has thrown 81.1 innings, recording 52 strikeouts and a 3.65 ERA. His most recent season with the BayStars saw him post a 3-0 record, 36 strikeouts, and five holds—showcasing his ability to compete effectively at the professional level as he transitions into a starting role with Brisbane.

A Global Step Forward

The partnership between the Brisbane Bandits and Yokohama DeNA BayStars highlights the growing global reach of baseball and the strength of the ABL as a platform for international development. This collaboration not only strengthens ties between Japan and Australia but also gives Aussie players the opportunity to compete alongside—and against—top international talent, helping elevate the standard of Australian baseball. Both organisations share a vision for fostering player growth and delivering high-quality baseball for fans across both nations.

Bandits fans can look forward to seeing Mashiko and Nakagawa bring their experience, professionalism, and flair from Japan’s top league to Viticon Stadium this season.

Stay tuned for their first appearances in Bandits colours as the 2025/26 season gets underway.