The third Japanese-born player in Winnipeg Goldeyes history, Ryo Kohigashi joined a short list that also includes Yasushi Hirose in 2001 and Michitaka Nishiyama in 2004.

A native of Kyoto, Ryo played through his college years at home before beginning his professional career in North America. His first opportunity came with the Québec Capitales of the Frontier League, where he shared a clubhouse with current Winnipeg teammate James Bradwell. When Ryo first arrived in Canada, he spoke very little English, making his progression both on and off the field an important part of his baseball journey.

Ryo became an integral part of one of the Frontier League’s most successful clubs, helping Québec capture championships in both 2024 and 2025. Those titles were the third and fourth in succession for the Capitales, giving him valuable experience pitching in meaningful games and championship environments.

His career has also taken him across the Pacific during the North American offseason. Ryo has pitched in the Australian Baseball League with the Auckland Tuatara, Canberra Cavalry, and Brisbane Bandits, adding another international chapter to a career already spanning three countries. During his time in Canberra, he crossed paths with former Goldeyes outfielder Miles Simington.

Now with the Goldeyes, Ryo brings championship experience, international perspective, and a career shaped by his willingness to adapt to new countries, cultures, and styles of baseball.