The story of Yasuhiro Kobayashi in the BSA began with the Looters discovering him in Japan in the famous winter of 2012/13. Kobayashi was one of a number of players brought into the organization that winter, but he's turned out to be one of the best ones. While there are some rumors of him being a son of famed hot dog eater Takeru Kobayashi, his age would put him as him being the father at 18. While possible, there isn't conclusive proof, but Yasuhiro does enjoy eating as well a fine cigar after every win.
Kobayashi profiles as a high average, low power hitter mostly seeking the gap for extra bases. Last year he split time between the A and AA level. In Single A, he had 332 ABs and hit a respectable .247/.364/.355 in a large park in Plumstead. He also had 17 doubles in that time while in Plumstead while taking 60 walks showing a keen eye. Upon his promotion to AA, he handled himself well, but was obviously adjusted to the game. He hit a low .236/.300/.354 in his 212 ABs at AA, but contributed 11 doubles. His walk rate dropped though to only 19 BBs, but did hit 4 homers in his time there.
Kobayashi began this season again at AA, but looked much more adjusted to the level. In his first 42 ABs he put up a .333/.481/.548 line with 4 doubles, and an impressive 12 walks. He truly looks like he's taken that next step while still only 18 years old. That performance has now earned him a promotion to AAA to see if he can further advance his trades and factor himself into the future fortunes of the New Orleans Looters.
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