HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — How did you sleep last night? If you’re clutching a coffee mug or energy drink, we sympathize.
The video above is from Houston’s 24/7 Streaming Channel.
For some, like the Houston Astros’ new starting pitcher Yusei Kikuchi, sleep is more than just rest—it’s a critical part of their routine. The 33-year-old Japanese pitcher made his debut for the Astros on Friday against the Tampa Bay Rays following a controversial trade with the Toronto Blue Jays.
Despite his rocky 2024 stats, Kikuchi’s unique sleep habits might endear him to Astros fans. On Friday, he struck out 11 batters, including a franchise record-tying eight consecutive strikeouts, over 5.2 innings in a Houston victory.
Last September, Kikuchi told Sports Illustrated that he aims for 13 to 14 hours of sleep before every start. This interview came after a rough game against the New York Yankees, where he got just 11 hours of sleep. His record this season was 4-9 in 22 starts before Friday, compared to 11-6 last season.
Kikuchi’s approach to sleep is distinctive. He told SI, “If you close your eyes, I feel like you should be able to sleep.” He typically takes five minutes to fall asleep after starting his bedtime routine with 10 minutes of meditation, and he doesn’t require a dark room or earplugs.
Between starts, Kikuchi sleeps for eight to 10 hours and has always slept easily, even as a child. Interestingly, he also describes himself as a “coffee addict.”
So, should you adopt Kikuchi’s extreme sleep regimen? Maybe that’s something you’ll need to sleep on.
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