The Barnstormers are happy to sign Mizuki Akatsuka, from Gifu Japan.

Mizuki is a 27 years old switch pitcher. He attended Rikkyo University in Tokyo, Japan. He was in High School the first time he attempted to "switch pitch" in a game.

Played with the Hamilton Cardinals in 2024, 65 IP, 3 Wins, ERA 3.46, WHIP 1.11, 64 K's.

Versus the Barnstormers, in his first 2 appearances, Akatsuka threw 3.2 IP, 0 Hits, 2 BB, 2 K's and recorded a Hold.

Prior to the IBL, he played with the Japan Islanders of the Empire Professional Baseball League in Japan in 2022-23, 33.2 IP, 2.14 ERA, 1.40 WHIP, 32 K.

Also Pitched in the Frontier League in 2022-23 for the Empire State Greys and the New Jersey Jackals and was able to accumulate 3 Wins and 52 K's over 82 IP.

This past winter (2024-25), Akatsuka pitched in the Nicaraguan Winter League. 26.2 IP, 4.73 ERA and 18 K's.

In Major League Baseball, there has only been 6 switch pitchers ever recorded and only 2 since 1900.

Here's his repertoire:

Pitch Selection as a Righty: Fastball, Curve, Slider and Change (Tops out at 91mph)

Pitch Selection as a Lefty: Fastball, Curve, Slider, Change, Cutter and 2 seam (Tops out at 88mph)

Welcome to the team Mizuki.