Kyle Higashioka, a name that has echoed through the dugouts and minor league stadiums for over a decade, has carved out a notable career in Major League Baseball. Born on April 20, 1990, in Huntington Beach, California, Higashioka’s journey to becoming a reliable catcher in the big leagues is a testament to perseverance, defensive prowess, and an evolving offensive game. Currently donning the number 11 jersey for the Texas Rangers, Higashioka brings a wealth of experience and a steady presence behind the plate.
Early Innings: From Southern California to the Bronx
Higashioka’s baseball aspirations took root at Edison High School in Huntington Beach, where he honed his skills and caught the attention of college scouts. He initially committed to play for the University of California, Berkeley. However, his path took a professional turn when the New York Yankees selected him in the seventh round of the 2008 MLB draft. Opting to sign with the prestigious organization over attending college, Higashioka received a $500,000 signing bonus, signaling the start of a long and winding journey through the Yankees’ farm system.
The minor leagues proved to be a proving ground for Higashioka. He navigated through various levels, showcasing his defensive capabilities while working to refine his offensive approach. His progress was unfortunately hampered by injuries, including Tommy John surgery and a broken thumb, which limited his playing time in the 2013 and 2014 seasons. Despite these setbacks, Higashioka remained resilient. His dedication paid off in 2016 while playing for the Trenton Thunder (Double-A), where he earned Player of the Week honors. This performance propelled him to the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Triple-A), where he concluded the season with an impressive .276 batting average, 21 home runs, and 81 RBIs. This offensive surge earned him a spot on the Yankees’ 40-man roster.
The Bronx Years: Debuts, Milestones, and a Perfect Game
Higashioka’s Major League debut came on April 10, 2017, as a defensive replacement for the Yankees, following an injury to Gary Sánchez. While his initial stint in the majors saw him struggle offensively, going 0-for-18, he returned later in the season and etched his name in Yankees’ lore. On July 1, 2017, against the Boston Red Sox’s David Price, Higashioka connected for his first major league hit – a home run. Remarkably, his next two hits were also home runs, making him only the ninth MLB player since 1920 to have their first three career hits leave the yard.
Over the next few seasons with the Yankees, Higashioka established himself as a reliable defensive catcher, known for his game-calling abilities and rapport with the pitching staff. While his offensive numbers fluctuated, he provided valuable stability behind the plate. A significant moment in his career came on September 16, 2020, when he stunned the Toronto Blue Jays by hitting three home runs in a single game. This feat made him the 24th Yankee to achieve a three-homer game and the first to do so while batting ninth in the order.
The 2021 season brought another memorable highlight as Higashioka was behind the plate on May 19 when Corey Kluber pitched a no-hitter against his current team, the Texas Rangers. In 2022, he added a quirky note to his career when he hit a home run off a 35.1 mph pitch from first baseman Frank Schwindel, the slowest pitch hit for a home run since Statcast began tracking in 2015. By the end of his tenure in the Bronx (2017-2023), Higashioka had become a respected figure in the Yankees’ clubhouse, known for his work ethic and team-first attitude.
A Brief Stop in San Diego: New League, Career Highs
On December 6, 2023, Higashioka’s journey took him to the National League as he was traded to the San Diego Padres along with Michael King, Drew Thorpe, Randy Vásquez, and Jhony Brito in a blockbuster deal that brought Juan Soto and Trent Grisham to the Yankees. This move provided Higashioka with a fresh opportunity and a chance to contribute to a Padres team with postseason aspirations.
His time in San Diego in 2024 proved to be his most offensively productive season to date. In 84 games, Higashioka slashed .220/.263/.476, setting career highs in home runs (17) and RBIs (45). He quickly became a valuable asset for the Padres, showcasing a newfound power surge while maintaining his reputation as a solid defensive catcher. Notably, he hit his first career grand slam on June 26 against the Washington Nationals, driving in a career-high six runs.
The Lone Star State Beckons: Joining the Texas Rangers
Following his productive year with the Padres, Higashioka entered free agency and, on December 2, 2024, signed a two-year, $13.5 million contract with the Texas Rangers. This move brought him back to the American League and provided the reigning World Series champions with an experienced and reliable catching option. The contract includes a $7 million mutual option for 2027 with a $1 million buyout, indicating the Rangers’ belief in his continued contributions.
In his first season with the Rangers in 2025, Higashioka has already made an impact. As of late May 2025, he has played in 20 games, batting .235 with one home run and eight RBIs. However, his season was briefly interrupted when he was placed on the 10-day injured list in early May with a mild left intercostal strain, sustained while running out a double. He was activated from the injured list on May 13, and the Rangers are currently carrying three catchers, including Higashioka and Tucker Barnhart.
FAQs
Who is Kyle Higashioka?
Kyle Higashioka is an American professional baseball catcher currently playing for the Texas Rangers in Major League Baseball (MLB). Born on April 20, 1990, in Huntington Beach, California, he was drafted by the New York Yankees in the 7th round of the 2008 MLB Draft and made his MLB debut in 2017.
What is Kyle Higashioka’s current team and contract status?
As of the 2025 season, Higashioka is with the Texas Rangers. He signed a two-year, $13.5 million contract in December 2024, with a mutual option for the 2027 season.
What are Kyle Higashioka’s 2025 season stats?
In the 2025 season, Higashioka has played 17 games, batting .254 with 1 home run and 8 RBIs.
What are Kyle Higashioka’s career statistics?
Over his MLB career, Higashioka has a batting average of .214, with 58 home runs and 174 RBIs in 415 games.
What is Kyle Higashioka’s salary?
For the 2025 season, Higashioka is earning $5.75 million.
Is Kyle Higashioka married?
Yes, Kyle Higashioka is married to Alyse Higashioka. The couple tied the knot on November 13, 2016, in Maui, Hawaii.
Does Kyle Higashioka have Japanese heritage?
Yes, Higashioka is of Japanese descent through his father, Ted Higashioka, who is a third-generation Japanese American. Kyle has embraced his heritage by learning Japanese to connect with his roots and communicate with Japanese teammates.
What was the trade involving Kyle Higashioka and Juan Soto?
On December 6, 2023, the New York Yankees traded Kyle Higashioka, along with pitchers Michael King, Drew Thorpe, Randy Vásquez, and Jhony Brito, to the San Diego Padres in exchange for outfielders Juan Soto and Trent Grisham.
How did Kyle Higashioka perform with the San Diego Padres?
In the 2024 season with the Padres, Higashioka played 84 games, achieving career highs with 17 home runs and 45 RBIs, while batting .220.
What is Kyle Higashioka’s educational background?
Kyle Higashioka studied mechanical engineering at Orange Coast College, fulfilling a promise to his mother to pursue higher education.
To conclude
Kyle Higashioka’s journey through Major League Baseball exemplifies dedication, adaptability, and cultural pride. From his early days with the New York Yankees to his current role with the Texas Rangers, Higashioka has consistently demonstrated his value as a reliable catcher and teammate.
His commitment to embracing his Japanese heritage, learning multiple languages, and pursuing higher education reflects a well-rounded individual who values both personal growth and professional excellence. Higashioka’s career highlights, including his standout season with the San Diego Padres and his significant role in the blockbuster trade involving Juan Soto, showcase his impact on the field.
As he continues to contribute to the Rangers in the 2025 season, fans and aspiring athletes can look to Kyle Higashioka as an example of perseverance, cultural appreciation, and continuous self-improvement. His story serves as an inspiration, illustrating that success in professional sports is not only about talent but also about character, resilience, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
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