Yusei Kikuchi: The All-Star Angel
July 8, 2025 - Written by Alex Sukyas
Photo Credit : @D1SHER - X
On July 6th, 2025 the AL All star Pitchers and Reserves were announced. In which the AL Pitching lineup did have one Angel. Yusei Kikuchi, the Halos 34 year old Lefty Starter had received the All Star nod while the Halos were in Toronto for a 3 game series.
Season Stats
Throughout this All Star Year Kikuchi has had a rather impressive statline. This year has been arguably his best, in which he holds a somewhat disappointing 3-6 record, but an impressive 2.81 ERA across 18 starts.(102.1 IP) Kikuchi also has a 1.368 WHIP, but 106 Ks to make up for it. These 106K with his 102.1 IP means he holds an impressive 9.3 K/9. This stat means hes struck out 9.3 batters on average per start, higher than the league average of 8.5.
Notable Games
Photo Credit : @Angels - Instagram
Kikuchi has had some notable starts that make up his journey to the All Star game this season. To start, Kikuchi’s 5th start of the season, April 20th, Home vs the San Francisco Giants, Kikuchi went 5.1 innings, not allowing any earned runs, but 1 unearned run. This also came with 5 hits and 6 Ks as the Angels would have a 5-4 walk off win. Fast forward a few starts, and we find Kikuchi’s 10th start vs the Dodgers on May 18th at Dodger Stadium. Here, Kikuchi would go 5.2 innings, allowing 1 earned run, 3 hits, and 4 walks.
However, he would strikeout 7 in this outing as the Angels would take the contest 6-4. His next start would also be a great one. Game 50 vs the Miami Marlins, Kikuchi logged 5.2 IP, 0 ER, 7 H, and 4K, earning himself his first win of the season. However, his most impressive start of the season came on June 25th vs the Boston Red Sox. Here, Kikuchi went 7 innings, only allowing 2 unearned runs, 3 hits and 1 walk. This wouldn't be the highlight of his game though. Kikuchi would strikeout 12 batters, making it his season high so far, as the Angels won 5-2 and Kikuchi logged another win. Overall, these starts along with the rest of Kikuchi’s amazing season earned him a spot in the 2025 All Star game, which is being held in Atlanta.
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