At Core Energy Belt, we take pride in sharing our Japanese heritage and the deep connection our product has to the game in Japan. As a small company, we face challenges in competing with big-budget endorsements, but our reputation has grown organically through trust and performance.

Today, the Core Energy Belt is worn by the majority of Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) players and embraced by some of the world’s most celebrated athletes — including MVPs, Silver Slugger winners, and Platinum Glove recipients. Rooted in Japanese baseball, we are proud to see our presence expanding across Major League Baseball (MLB).

Japan’s Impact on Major League Baseball: Culture, Performance, and the Gear Supporting the Rise

Japan’s influence on Major League Baseball (MLB) has never been more visible or more impactful. From the Tokyo Series to the postseason awards, Japanese players are not only competing at the highest level, but they’re also redefining what elite performance looks like. 

Behind that rise is a blend of cultural discipline, technical mastery, and some new trusted gear, including the Core Energy Belt, trusted by over 80% of Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) players and every Japanese player currently in MLB.

From NPB to MLB: A Seamless Transition

Japanese players entering MLB in recent years have brought more than talent. They are changing the culture. Rooted in precision, humility, and relentless preparation, their approach to the game has influenced everything from clubhouse culture to training regimens. MLB franchises now actively scout NPB not just for standout athletes but for the systems and philosophies that produce them. 

•  Worn by over 80% of NPB players

•  Trusted by all Japanese MLB players

•  Featured in the Tokyo Series by 75% of starting pitchers

The 2025 Tokyo Series was a landmark moment for baseball. Held at the Tokyo Dome, it showcased the global reach of baseball and the competitive parity between leagues. The Tokyo Series averaged over 25 million viewers across all platforms, making it the most-watched MLB game ever in Japan, surpassing previous opening games by a wide margin.

Notably, three out of the four starting pitchers in the series wore the Core Energy Belt, underscoring its role in supporting elite-level performance. 

All-Stars and MVPs

In 2025, Japanese players left a defining mark on Major League Baseball. Several pitchers delivered dominant campaigns, finishing among league leaders in earned run average, strikeouts, and innings pitched. They helped push LA into the postseason by providing consistency and pitching in high-pressure situations. On the offensive side, hitters from Japan contributed with clutch performances

A Japanese pitcher delivered a historic performance in the 2025 World Series, earning series MVP honors. He threw a complete game in Game 2, allowing just one run with eight strikeouts, then returned in Game 6 with six strong innings to secure another win. On zero days’ rest, he came back in Game 7 to pitch 2.2 scoreless innings in relief, sealing the championship and cementing his reputation as one of the most dominant pitchers in baseball.

In 2025, a Japanese two-way star delivered another remarkable season, excelling both as a hitter and pitcher. He ranked among league leaders in home runs and on-base percentage while also posting dominant pitching numbers, including a sub-3.00 ERA and over 200 strikeouts. His all-around performance helped drive his team deep into the postseason, reinforcing his status as one of the most impactful and versatile players in Major League Baseball. He capped the year by winning the league’s Most Valuable Player award, securing his fourth MVP of his career. 

Core Energy’s Journey Through Japanese Baseball

The Core Energy Belt began as a solution to a problem. When a professional pitcher faced persistent back pain, he partnered with founder Taka Yokoi to develop a belt that could deliver core support without limiting movement. After extensive trial and error, the Core Energy Belt was born.

Its adoption in Japan was swift. Before it ever reached the U.S. market, the belt had become a staple among NPB players. As Japanese athletes transitioned to MLB, they brought the belt with them, recommending it to teammates. Today, Core Energy Belts are worn on every MLB team.

Looking Ahead

As MLB continues to expand globally, Japan remains a cornerstone of its international strategy. MLB teams are analyzing the new crop of Japanese players, which includes prospective aces and power hitters.  We look forward to seeing how the 2027 players develop, and we, at Core Energy, are here to help them in any way we can. The new players include:

  • Ventren Corner Infielder: A six-time NPB All-Star with multiple 30+ home run seasons is finally being posted to the MLB. His consistent power and ability to drive in runs make him one of the most anticipated bats to cross over in years.

  • Young Power Hitter: Another standout, known for his clutch hitting and generational power. He’s won the triple crown and has the potential to develop into an all-star designated hitter. 

  • Solid Pitcher: A right-hander with a mid-90s fastball and sharp breaking pitches has emerged as one of the most reliable arms in NPB. Scouts project him as a potential No. 2 starter in MLB rotations.

With performance gear like the Core Energy Belt supporting these Japanese players, we hope that our belt can help them perform in the big leagues.