Marek Hfulup, the first player from the Czech Republic to be registered under NPB, held a press conference at Yokohama Stadium on the 12th. He expressed gratitude for being affectionately nicknamed “Machine” by fans, highlighting the importance of fan involvement in creating such nicknames. Hfulup shared a lighthearted story about the origin of his moniker, which likely arose from his seemingly robotic running style. He welcomed alternative suggestions for a new nickname with a smile.
Reflecting on his career, Hfulup mentioned his aspirations to participate in the World Baseball Classic, scheduled to return to the Tokyo Dome next year. He expressed a desire to share his experiences with teammates, given that he has played in previous tournaments.
Recently, it was announced that Hfulup would be promoted from the developmental league, receiving the number “39.” He is expected to join the main squad immediately for the upcoming game against DeNA.
Hfulup gained attention during the 2023 WBC for hitting a double off renowned pitcher Roki Sasaki, earning him the nickname “Czech Judge.” After joining NPB as its first Czech national player last autumn, he has had a solid season in the Eastern League, with a batting average of .265, four home runs, and 29 RBIs in 66 games.
This news marks a significant milestone for Czech baseball, with Hfulup serving as a potential pioneer for future players from his country in professional leagues. His performances have sparked interest and showcased the talent emerging from Czechia.