A Baseball Gaijin: Chasing a Dream to Japan and Back is a narrative of perseverance and determination highlighting the extraordinary journey of Tony Barnette. Drafted in 2006 by the Arizona Diamondbacks after a stellar pitching career at Arizona State, Tony seemed destined for greatness. However, in 2010, as he was dominating Triple-A ball, an unexpected opportunity arose from Japan. The Tokyo Yakult Swallows offered him a significant salary increase to play in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). After the Diamondbacks agreed to release him, Tony embarked on an adventure that would test his resolve and reshape his career.
Arriving in Japan, Tony faced immense challenges, including language barriers and unfamiliarity with Japanese culture and NPB’s unique style of play. Despite initial struggles and setbacks, he transformed himself from a starter to a dominant closer over six seasons. His perseverance paid off in 2015 when he led the Swallows to the Japan Series. In December 2015, Tony signed with the Texas Rangers and made his major-league debut on April 5, 2016 with the Texas Rangers. Over four seasons with the Rangers and Chicago Cubs, Tony fulfilled his childhood dream of being a big-league pitcher.
Through meticulous research and intimate collaboration with Tony Barnette, author Aaron Fischman brings this inspiring story to life in A Baseball Gaijin—a testament to never giving up on your dreams despite overwhelming odds.
Learn more about Barnette’s time in NPB in this episode of “Chatter Up” where he’s joined by other former Swallows.
