On March 16, 2025, the Yomiuri Giants faced the Chicago Cubs at the Tokyo Dome for a preseason game, but they fell short, losing 4-2. Despite the defeat, the day showcased some promising individual performances from Giants players, particularly Ishikawa Tatsunari and Okamoto Kazuma.
Ishikawa, the 26-year-old left-handed pitcher, took the mound as the second reliever of the game, making quite the impression by shutting down the Cubs’ batting lineup. He pitched for three innings, allowing no hits and achieving four strikeouts, including fansing top player Suzuki Seiya during the seventh inning. After the game, Giants manager Abe Shinno confirmed, “I want him to throw knowing he is slated for the rotation.” For Ishikawa, making it to the opening rotation is significant since he faced uncertainties last year when he was released by the Yokohama BayStars.
“When I left the BayStars, I didn’t think I would be able to achieve such results. I will do my best to help the team win,” Ishikawa stated, reflecting his determination to contribute effectively to his new team.
Elsewhere on the field, Okamoto Kazuma, who has been struggling with his batting during the preseason, redeemed himself by hitting a timely two-run double. This occurred with two outs and runners on first and second base during the fifth inning. He perfectly connected with Cubs pitcher Palencia’s fastball, driving the ball deep to left-center and scoring both runners. Okamoto remarked, “I hadn’t seen those types of hits throughout the open training. I’m glad I was able to produce one, as it had been so long.” He finished the game with two hits and two RBIs.
Notably, Abe expressed optimism about Okamoto’s recovery, indicating, “He connected well with the pitches; I hope this serves as good momentum for him.” After facing MLB opposition, Okamoto felt rejuvenated from the experience over the past two days, which he described as “a valuable experience.”
Despite the loss to the Cubs, which followed the previous defeat against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Abe emphasized the importance of playing against major league teams. “No matter the result, these two days were wonderful, and I hope the experience gained from these games carries forward to the season,” he said. The packed stands at the Tokyo Dome were buzzing with enthusiasm, and Abe noted, “I think people around the world saw there are such teams in Japan. I hope this boosts the popularity of baseball both here and globally.”
The Cubs took control of the game early, scoring four runs during the fifth inning, which was highlighted by timely hits from players including Workman and Shaw. The Giants attempted to rally, with Okamoto's two-run double narrowing the gap, but they couldn't quite catch up. The Giants had their chances, but solid pitching from the Cubs, particularly from Boyd, who went four innings without allowing any runs, kept them at bay.
Aside from Ishikawa and Okamoto's notable performances, the game was also marked by the reunion of Ishikawa with his former teammate Imanaga of the Cubs, who handed him some Cubs merchandise. Their friendly exchange underscored the camaraderie and mutual respect among players, regardless of team affiliations.
Looking forward, Abe declared his confidence in Ishikawa as he prepares for the opening series against Yakult on March 30, particularly after the promising performances he delivered during the preseason games. “He’s been showing great form since camp; I want him to fine-tune himself to start the season as our pitcher,” Abe stated. This reflects the Giants' commitment to placing their young talents like Ishikawa and Okamoto on the forefront as they aim for league supremacy this season.
With their eyes set on the future, the Giants are poised to build on these experiences and performances. “We have our own opening coming soon; I want to work really hard,” Okamoto reiterated, showing his spirit as the team gears up for competitive play. The upcoming opening series is not just another set of games; it sets the stage for the Giants to prove themselves as they aim for consecutive league crowns.