On March 28, 2025, the atmosphere around Mazda Stadium was electric as the Hiroshima Toyo Carp kicked off their home opener against the Hanshin Tigers. The day was marked not just by the excitement of baseball but also by the bustling energy at the nearby commercial facility, Minamoa, located within the JR Hiroshima Station building. This marked the first home opener for the Carp in front of their loyal fans, and the excitement was palpable, drawing a large crowd to the area.
Minamoa, operated by China SC Development, saw a surge in visitors eager to soak in the pre-game festivities. The facility was packed with fans donning Carp merchandise, ready to cheer on their beloved team. However, due to the overwhelming turnout, the operators warned that there might be restrictions on admission to Minamoa on March 29 and 30, anticipating similar crowds as the excitement of the season continued.
As the game day approached, the Carp's manager, Takayoshi Shinii, was a bundle of energy during the opening ceremony. He was seen enthusiastically engaging with players, high-fiving them while shouting “Foe!” in a display of team spirit and excitement. This year marks Shinii's third season as the Carp's manager, and he expressed his eagerness for the season: “It’s exciting. I’ve been looking forward to this. The pitchers have been adjusting well, and I feel the young players are improving as the spring training progresses,” he said, reflecting a sense of confidence as the team prepared to take the field.
The opening ceremony also featured a special performance by singer Daijiro Shiomi, who at 77 years old, sang the national anthem to honor the occasion. Shiomi is well-loved among Carp fans, having originally sung the team’s anthem, "Sore Yuke Carp ~ Wakaki Koisitachi ~" back in 1975, a song that has become a staple of Carp culture. His presence added a nostalgic touch to the event, reminding fans of the rich history associated with the team.
Adding to the ceremonial festivities, Hiroshima's Mayor Kazumi Matsui, aged 72, threw the ceremonial first pitch, marking the official start of the game. The combination of the national anthem, the first pitch, and the vibrant crowd set the stage for what was expected to be an exhilarating match between the Carp and the Tigers.
In the days leading up to the opener, the Carp's management and players took part in a traditional victory prayer at the Hiroshima Gokoku Shrine on March 27, 2025. This event included 44 members of the team, including Owner Representative Kazuhiro Matsuda and team captain Ryota Tanibayashi. During the ceremony, Shinii wrote "Nippon Ichi" on the votive horse tablet, symbolizing the team's aspirations for the season, while Tanibayashi wrote, "Die trying for Japan's Best," reflecting on last season’s disappointing fourth-place finish and expressing a fierce determination to succeed this year.
Tanibayashi, 33, emphasized the importance of learning from last year’s struggles, stating, “The time has come to channel the frustrations of last season into our performance. We want to ensure that we can all smile at the end of this year.” The sentiment resonated with fans, who are hopeful for a successful season ahead.
As the game commenced, the excitement was not just confined to the stadium. Fans gathered in droves at Minamoa, celebrating the opening day with food, drinks, and camaraderie. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, cheers, and the unmistakable sound of baseball enthusiasm. The operators of Minamoa were prepared for the crowds, ensuring that fans had access to everything they needed to enjoy the day.
Throughout the game, the Carp aimed to make a strong statement against their rivals, the Hanshin Tigers. The rivalry between these two teams is storied, and each match is a battle for pride and position in the league. Fans of both teams are known for their passionate support, and this game was no exception. The cheers could be heard across the city as supporters rallied behind their teams.
As the game progressed, the tension mounted. Both teams showcased their skills, with pitchers working hard to keep the opposing batters at bay. The excitement in the stands was contagious, with fans on the edge of their seats, eager to see how the game would unfold. The stakes were high, and the players were aware that this opener could set the tone for the rest of the season.
With the game still ongoing, anticipation filled the air. The Carp fans were hopeful for a strong start to the season, while the Tigers aimed to spoil the party. As the innings unfolded, every pitch and swing was met with cheers and gasps from the crowd, underscoring the passion that baseball ignites in its fans.
As the day drew to a close, the sense of community and shared excitement was palpable. The Carp's home opener was not just a game; it was a celebration of the team's history, its fans, and the spirit of baseball in Hiroshima. Regardless of the outcome, the day marked a new beginning for the Carp and their supporters, who are ready for what promises to be an exhilarating season ahead.
