In a remarkable display of endurance and skill, Nippon-Ham's Hisanori Miyanishi has tied the professional baseball record for the most consecutive relief appearances, achieving the feat during a game against Rakuten on May 10, 2025, at Escon Field. The 39-year-old left-hander entered the game in the sixth inning, striking out Rakuten's Muneyuki Murao with just three pitches, bringing his total to 879 consecutive relief appearances. This milestone matches the record set by Hitoki Iwase of Chunichi, who held the record from 2001 to 2018.
Miyanishi's journey in professional baseball began back in 2008, and he has dedicated his entire career to being a relief pitcher. As he prepares to celebrate his 40th birthday on June 2, 2025, Miyanishi reflects on his career with gratitude. "I wanted to be a starter at one point," he joked during a post-game interview, adding, "But I’m thankful that I can still pitch like this now." Before this game, he had made 878 appearances over his impressive 18-year career.
During the game against Rakuten, Nippon-Ham was leading by a single run when Miyanishi was called upon to face a critical situation with two outs and a runner on second base. He confidently dispatched Murao, ensuring that his team maintained their slim lead. The victory for Nippon-Ham, which ended with a score of 8-7, marked a significant moment in Miyanishi's illustrious career.
After the game, he expressed his excitement, exclaiming, "This is the best!" in response to his achievement. Miyanishi noted the pressure of the moment, especially facing a rookie like Murao, stating, "I had to be fully focused; I couldn't afford to make even one mistake." His ability to perform under pressure has been a hallmark of his career.
In addition to his recent milestone, Miyanishi made history in August 2024 by becoming the first player to achieve 400 holds, further solidifying his legacy as one of Japan's premier relief pitchers. His success is not just a personal achievement; it is a testament to his dedication and the trust that the Nippon-Ham Fighters have placed in him throughout his career.
Miyanishi's record-tying performance comes during a season where he has already made ten appearances. His consistency and reliability have made him a fan favorite and a respected figure in the league. As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if he can break the record and set a new standard for future generations of pitchers.
The Nippon-Ham Fighters, currently with a season record of 5 wins and 2 losses against Rakuten, have shown resilience in their gameplay, which has been key to their early-season success. Manager Shinjo has praised the team's ability to handle pressure situations, stating, "We have a strong group that knows how to fight back, and it shows in our close games."
Miyanishi's achievement is not just a personal victory but also a moment of pride for the Nippon-Ham Fighters organization. The team has a rich history in Japanese baseball, and milestones like this one contribute to their legacy. Fans at Escon Field celebrated the moment, with many expressing their admiration for Miyanishi's dedication and passion for the game.
As the season unfolds, Miyanishi's performance will be crucial for the Fighters as they aim for a successful campaign. His experience and skill set will undoubtedly be an asset as the team navigates the challenges of the season.
Looking ahead, the Fighters hope to capitalize on Miyanishi's leadership on the mound. With his record-tying performance, the spotlight will be on him as he continues to defy age and expectations. As he approaches his 40th birthday, there is a palpable sense of anticipation among fans and teammates regarding what the future holds for this legendary pitcher.
In summary, Hisanori Miyanishi's accomplishment of tying the record for consecutive relief appearances is a significant milestone in both his career and in the history of Japanese baseball. His journey from a rookie to a record-tying pitcher reflects not only his talent but also his unwavering commitment to the sport. As he continues to pitch, fans can only hope to witness more historic moments from this remarkable athlete.
