YABAI, INSPIRED BY YOSHI

In the world of baseball, a player's glove is more than just a piece of equipment; it's an extension of their passion for the game. For me, baseball has always been more than just a sport; it's a way of life. While working for Mizuno, I had the incredible opportunity to work in the sporting goods industry and spend time with Yoshi, a master glove craftsman who’d been in the trade for over six decades. Inspired by his passion and craftsmanship, I decided to embark on a journey to create my own ball glove brand, one that would echo the love for the game and the artistry behind the gloves.

The Spark of Inspiration

My time at Mizuno introduced me to a world of glove-making that I had never truly appreciated before. Watching the master craftsman at work was awe-inspiring. Every stitch, every cut, and every detail was meticulously executed with a passion. It wasn't just a job for him; it was a labor of love. Witnessing this dedication opened my eyes to the potential of creating something extraordinary that would make players cherish their gloves as much as they cherished the game.

From Concept to Reality

After leaving the sporting goods industry, a couple retired baseball players I knew asked why I didn’t have my own brand. I knew the factories that manufactured ball gloves and they thought it would be a simple thing for me to do. They were right and there was no reason for me to not to step into this idea. I knew how to design product so I started off sketching and illustrating some of the top models that pro players used. Collaborating with college and pro athletes, I was able to bring to life top quality gloves using high quality materials. With the goal to bring to market top quality gloves that is priced right. This means no compromising on quality and not charging the prices found at retail.

The Journey

I’ve been grateful for being able to take the journey I’ve taken. Meeting some of the top players in the game, learning how to make product from concept to commercialization, and being able to work with a master glove craftsman. As we continue to grow, our commitment to excellence and passion for the sport will remain at the heart of everything we do. As the creator of Yabai Sports, this has been my journey. For those with an idea, be inspired and learn everyday. You can make ideas become a reality.