The 2025 preseason for the Hanshin Tigers is proving to be pivotal as several players are making news for their performances and challenges on and off the field. While the season opener is still on the horizon, excitement is building among fans and players alike.
One standout story is Kinoa, who demonstrated remarkable skill during the team's recent game against Yakult at Jingu Stadium on March 18. Trailing by three runs, Kinoa managed to hit a timely center field single to tie the game 5-5. He remarked, "I was thoroughly prepared. It was important to perform well, and I believe I did." His prowess with the bat last season, where he scored .471 with 8 hits and 16 RBIs during bases-loaded situations, has the team eagerly anticipating similar brilliance this year.
Equally notable is the situation surrounding Mookie Betts, who is making headlines for reasons largely unanticipated—his health. The outfielder has had to leave the team and return home due to rapidly declining health, characterized by significant weight loss and dehydration which raise concerns about potential nerve damage. Manager Roberts shared, "We’re worried about Betts and are monitoring his condition closely." This sudden development has necessitated adjustments for the Tigers as they prepare for the season.
Meanwhile, pitcher Tomita Ren continues to impress with his unblemished record during the practice games, having pitched 16 innings without conceding any runs across seven games. Scheduled to pitch against Orix at Kyocera Dome this weekend, Tomita’s strong performance could place him firmly as the starting pitcher for the Tigers during their opening series against the Hiroshima Carp. The team had previously expected Nishi Yuya to take on this role, but his recent outing, where he allowed 8 runs over three innings against the Giants, has opened the door for Tomita. Tomita aims to maintain his stellar form, stating, "I am working hard and adjusting for my next outing."
On the recovery front, left-handed pitcher Otake has made strides after battling lower limb tightness. He has rejoined the team’s practice following dedicated individual training and expressed optimism: "There are no problems as I participate again, focusing on making my return to the first team." He is expected to gradually reintroduce himself to game situations, moving from practice to potentially competing once more.
Adding depth to the Tigers' narrative is Yuasa, who is on the path of recovery from "chest vertebra yellow ligament ossification," a designated difficult illness. On March 18, Yuasa pitched during the Western League game against Softbank, managing to secure some applause from the crowd for his effort. Despite giving up one run due to four consecutive walks, he struck out Tsutsukawa with confidence, clocking 153km/h on the fastball. "I felt I could throw well again. There are still issues, but I'm getting there," he shared, stressing his goal to perform again at Koshien, enticing fans to see his revival on the mound.
The level of competition is undeniably intense as the players face both the challenges of health and performance during these preseason matchups. The recent games, particularly against major league teams, have offered invaluable experience, albeit perhaps harsher than some anticipated. Kinoa, who struggled with fewer hits (0-for-6) against the higher caliber of play, reflected on the steep learning curve stating, "That was truly valuable experience, and I'll carry it forward."
The Tigers do not just boast talent; they embody resilience. With new players waiting to carve their niche, including those recovering from health setbacks, the narrative isn’t just about how they play; it’s about perseverance. While some players, like Kinoa and Tomita, are shining bright, others, like Betts and Yuasa, are on journeys back from adversity.
With the first game of the season rapidly approaching, fans are eager to see how this newly forged identity of the team, influenced by the experiences of these players, will manifest on the field. The combination of resilience, talent, and determination paints an exciting picture for the Hanshin Tigers as they step back onto the diamond, ready to face the challenges of the 2025 season.
