Kendai Takasaki has secured their spot in the semi-finals of the 97th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament, showcasing an impressive performance against Hanamaki Higashi. On March 26, 2025, the match held at Hanshin Koshien Stadium concluded with a resounding 9-1 victory for Kendai Takasaki, making it their second consecutive year in the top four.
The game kicked off with Kendai Takasaki demonstrating offensive prowess right from the first inning. Players 秋山 and 中野 achieved consecutive hits that brought in two runs, setting the tone for the rest of the game.
Continuing their momentum, Kendai Takasaki added to their score in the third inning through a timely hit from 栗原, further establishing a commanding lead. The fourth inning saw them extend their advantage with another two-run hit from 秋山, leaving Hanamaki Higashi on the back foot.
Despite being outmatched, Hanamaki Higashi managed to answer back in the fifth inning, when 佐藤's double allowed them to score their only point. However, this was not enough to shift the tide of the game in their favor.
The eighth inning proved particularly fruitful for Kendai Takasaki, as they scored four additional runs, highlighted by a three-run triple from 加藤. The strategic pitching rotation of 山田, 島田, and the standout Ishigaki Genki were crucial in suppressing any further attempts from Hanamaki Higashi to mount a comeback.
Notably, 石垣元気 reached a remarkable new speed, clocking in at 155 km/h during the eighth and ninth innings. This pitch marks the fastest recorded in the tournament and ties him with previous record-holders 佐藤由規 and 安楽智大, who achieved this speed back in 2007 and 2013 respectively.
The victory against Hanamaki Higashi is particularly significant, as this loss means they will not reach the semifinals for the first time since their runner-up finish in 2009, a drought that has lasted 16 years.
The semi-final match for Kendai Takasaki is set for March 28, 2025, where they will face the winner of the match between 横浜 and 小島大学付属. Coach Aoyagi Hiroumi expressed confidence following the game, saying, "Ishigaki's fastball is remarkable. He not only matches the fastest pitch in Koshien history but also raises expectations for the upcoming matches!" This sentiment echoes within the team as they aim for consecutive championships.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Kendai Takasaki as they continue their impressive run. The blend of powerful hitting and exceptional pitching makes them a formidable contender in this year's championship race.
