April 15, 2024 11:00 Hanshin vs. Softbank Bottom of the 1st inning, Hanshin with no outs and bases loaded, Hiroshi Toyoda hits a right-handed hit at the right time (Photo by Aiko Ishii)
Hanshin outfielder Hiroshi Toyoda (26) was greatly inspired by his senior, who was active in the blue uniform.
This is infielder Yasuhiro Yamamoto (30), who was left out of Hanshin during last off-season and will be playing for Chunichi this season. On the 13th and 14th, he had 4 hits and 2 RBIs in 7 at-bats against his old club Hanshin (Vantelin Dome). Seeing his former teammate’s strong decision to return the favor, he honestly said, “It’s a little complicated, but it’s amazing.”
Last year we spent a lot of time together at Naruo Beach. Both of them never made it to the first team. We feasted on yakiniku on the Nagoya expedition and ramen on the Niigata expedition. “Yasu-san (Yamamoto) took great care of me,” as he and I are both from the Kanto region. I still have endless gratitude.
Last year, the team was number one in Japan. Due to the large strength of the army, there was little chance for the first army. Still, the image of Yamamoto continuing to swing the bat with all his might, rather than letting it rot, is etched in Toyota’s eyes.
“He’s a really good senior as he is. When I asked him about his batting, he answered well.”
If we can work together as a tiger… Although I have no such feelings, I can understand why he is playing an active role in his new world.
Toyota is also in his third year as a pro. His only appearance in the first team was in his rookie year and in 2022 under manager Yano. He made a total of 9 at-bats in 5 games and did not have a hit, and has been away from the first team since then.
These are days I face with an unyielding determination. So far in the Western League, he has had 18 hits in 59 at-bats in 19 games, hitting .350. In recent games, he has been assigned the No. 4 role more often. He is regaining the wide-angle batting stick he used in his working days.
“I haven’t felt that good since I turned professional, but now I’m hitting in the opposite direction and I think I’m in really good shape.”
This is how I’ll win. I once again remembered my origins and selling point. “My strength was hitting in the opposite direction. I still have a long way to go.” I know there aren’t many opportunities. He will follow in the footsteps of Yamamoto, who is seizing a chance at Chunichi.[Hanshin representative Nakano Muku]
Chunichi vs. Hanshin In the bottom of the 2nd inning, Chunichi with 2 outs and 1st and 2nd base, Yamamoto hits a timely hit to left. The pitcher is Saiki (photo by Ya Kato) This column has back issues.
2024-04-15 06:30:57
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