Hanshin Tigers are gearing up for the 2025 season with some promising performances during their preseason games at Tokyo Dome, where they faced the Chicago Cubs and Los Angeles Dodgers, winning both matches decisively with scores of 3-0.
On March 15, 2025, 20-year-old pitcher Tobetsu Toito showcased incredible skills against the Cubs, delivering a perfect game over five innings. He struck out numerous batters with his fastballs, demonstrating impressive control and poise on the mound. "I was only focused on how to keep them down," Toito said. "I realized it was no-hitter only after the game. This perfect ending occurred because I could hit my spots and control the game well. I want to continue working like this as the season approaches." His performance drew high praise from the Cubs; their manager and star player acknowledged his talent and remarked on the challenge he presented.
Following this match, Hanshin's pitching continued to shine on March 16, when 26-year-old pitcher Ooki Hiroto took to the mound against the Dodgers. With Shohei Ohtani, the standout player for the Dodgers, batting third designated hitter, Ooki maintained his composure to throw five innings, allowing just one hit and no earned runs. "I wanted to get strikeouts. My strategy was to push with my fastball and then utilize my forkball to secure those strikeouts," Ooki explained. Dodgers manager Roberts noted, "The pitch quality was major league caliber. The split-fingered pitch and command were exceptional," praising Ooki's performance.
With the season opener against Hiroshima approaching on March 28, manager Fujikawa expressed confidence about his team's current form and the potential for success this upcoming season. He said, "If we can avoid losing streaks, we can guarantee at least a .500 winning percentage, putting us back in contention for the championship.” Fujikawa emphasized the importance of building momentum and maintaining pitcher strength during the opening series.
The team demonstrated excellent batting support as well, showing offensive depth with timely hits across both games. Their efforts against top-tier Major League teams have left fans and team executives optimistic about the upcoming season.
It appears the team is ready to utilize its variety of young talents, with Fujikawa pointing out the necessity of developing pitchers like Toito and Ooki. "Continuously learning from these experiences will be invaluable," he stated. On the other hand, veteran input remains significant, especially from catchers Umeno and Sakamoto, providing guidance to the younger pitchers. Fujikawa commented, "While we only have two main catchers currently available, their leadership and experience will be very helpful as we go forward."
There's also talk about the starting rotation as the team prepares for the season. With last season's struggles fresh on everyone’s mind, the focus is on consistency and reliability on the mound. The arrival of new pitchers like Toito not only strengthens the roster but injects fresh energy and competition. Commenting on his talent pool, Fujikawa says, "Even with the uncertainty surrounding some players, I trust these pitchers to develop as needed. Having reliable starters ensures we won’t face extended losing streaks."
The rivalry with the Yomiuri Giants has taken on added importance this spring. Recent defeats suffered by the Giants to the Dodgers and Cubs only serve to intensify the competition. Hanshin fans were delighted to see the Giants struggle against these major league teams, and whispers of potential championship glory are already making rounds.
Yet, Fujikawa remains grounded, emphasizing focus and preparation over excitement. "I think this valuable time for each player has been ably spent. The excitement will follow as we prepare for what’s to come," he stated, reminding everyone of the need to be diligently prepared for the challenges of the long season. His commitment to excellence was evident as he urged players to absorb their experiences, stating, "Every game serves as preparation, and how we transition these lessons to the regular season is the key."
With the excitement of upcoming matches, coach Fujikawa has set the bar high. His words resonate not only with the players but also with the fans who, after the heartbreak of seasons past, see hope for 2025. This time, the expectation isn’t just to survive; it’s to thrive, with aspirations set firmly on championship contention. Over the course of more than 140 games, the hope is to establish dominance once more, affirming Hanshin Tigers’ potential as they surge forward, ready to face the season.
