Yusei Kikuchi, a skilled left-handed pitcher for the Los Angeles Angels and former NPB player, owes much of his success to the support of his wife, Rumi Fukatsu.
The Kikichi couple shares love, mutual respect, and a shared ambition, as Rumi balances her own successful career while being a devoted wife and mother.
Yusei Kikuchi and Rumi Fukatsu tied the knot in 2016, marking the start of a beautiful partnership.
At the time, Yusei was a rising star with the Saitama Seibu Lions in Japan’s NPB, and Rumi was already a well-known figure in the media world.
Their shared passion for their respective careers and their ability to support each other’s dreams laid a strong foundation for their relationship.
Together, they’ve gone through the challenges of professional sports, international moves, and parenthood with grace and determination.
In 2019, the couple welcomed their first child, a son named Leo, bringing even more joy to their lives.
As Yusei’s career took him from Japan to the MLB, Rumi stood by his side, adapting to new cities and cultures while continuing to pursue her own ambitions.
Yusei Kikuchi’s Wife, Rumi Fukatsu, Is A Woman Of Many Talents
Rumi Fukatsu, born on June 24, 1986, in Kanagawa Prefecture, Tokyo.
After graduating from the Faculty of Literature at Ferris University, Rumi embarked on a successful career in media.
She began her career at a local television station, where her charm and professionalism quickly made her a standout.
Over time, she moved to freelance work, appearing on a wide variety of TV and radio programs, including news, sports, and entertainment shows.
One of her most notable roles was as the weekday main anchor for World Sports MLB on NHK BS1, a program dedicated to covering Major League Baseball.
This role not only showed her skills as a broadcaster but also connected her to the world of professional baseball—a fitting coincidence, given her future with Yusei.
Beyond her work in media, Rumi is a successful entrepreneur.
She is the founder and CEO of The Ruby, a clothing brand that reflects her sense of style and creativity.
Her ability to juggle her entrepreneurial experiences while supporting her husband’s demanding career is a testament to her strength and versatility.
Rumi also gives back to her community by sharing her knowledge and experience.
She frequently lectures at her alma mater, Ferris University, and other institutions, inspiring the next generation with her insights on media, business, and the balance between personal and professional life.
Yusei Kikuchi’s Professional Baseball Career Began In 2009
Yusei Kikuchi’s professional baseball career began in 2009 when he signed with the Saitama Seibu Lions in Japan.
His talent and hard work earned him a reputation as one of NPB’s top pitchers.
On December 3, 2018, the Seibu Lions announced that Yusei would enter the MLB’s posting system, opening the door to his American career.
On January 2, 2019, he signed a four-year contract with the Seattle Mariners, marking a significant milestone in his journey.
Rumi supported Yusei through this major transition, moving with him to the United States and adapting to life in a new country.
Yusei’s career continued to evolve as he signed a three-year contract with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2022.
In 2024, he was traded to the Houston Astros before signing another three-year deal with the Los Angeles Angels later that year.
Through every move, Rumi has been a continuous source of support, helping Yusei face the pressures of professional sports while building a family together.
While Yusei shines on the pitcher’s mound, Rumi continues to pursue her passions in media and fashion.
Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to create The Ruby, a brand that embodies her vision of elegance and individuality.
Despite the demands of Yusei’s MLB schedule and the challenges of raising a young son, Rumi remains a dedicated professional, proving that it’s possible to chase your dreams while supporting your partner’s.
In 2023, Rumi crossed paths with Rintaro Sasaki, an up-and-coming baseball star and fellow alumnus of Yusei’s high school, Hanamaki Higashi.
This encounter highlighted the tight-knit nature of the baseball community and Rumi’s continued connection to the sport through her husband’s career and her own professional background.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Kikuchi attended Hanamaki Higashi High School, the same high school that two-way player Shohei Ohtani would later attend.
- Kikuchi has been named an All-Star in 2021 and 2025.
- Kikuchi has been known to follow a strict sleep pattern. Prior to every start, he reportedly sleeps between 13 and 14 hours.
