The Hanshin Tigers delivered a stunning performance on March 16, 2025, topping the Los Angeles Dodgers 3-0 during their preseason game at Tokyo Dome. The match not only showcased the Tigers' formidable pitching but also highlighted the remarkable hitting of their new cleanup hitter, Shota Morishita, who displayed both skill and power at the plate.
The Tigers, with eyes set on making waves this season, overwhelmed their major league opponents, curbing the Dodgers' offense effectively. Morishita, who was recently assigned the coveted number four batting position, made his presence known, especially during the fourth inning when he hit one of the most impressive doubles of the game.
During his first at-bat, Morishita faced Blake Snell, two-time winner of the Cy Young Award, but managed to connect with only a short fly. Undeterred, he returned to the plate for his second chance, this time with the Tigers leading 3-0 after Teruaki Sato's leadoff three-run homer. Morishita seized the moment, smashing Snell's 95.9 mph fastball down the left-field line for a blistering double with the bat speed reaching 177 km/h (around 110.1 mph). This decisive hit not only energized the team but also left spectators buzzing.
Morishita's excellence didn't falter as he encountered Tyler Glasnow, who took the mound later on. With another charged swing, he hit a sharp left, showcasing bat speed peaking at 180 km/h (approximately 112.1 mph), the highest recorded for both teams. This performance marks him as one of the rising stars of the new season, significantly boosting his confidence.
Reflecting on his impressive outings, Morishita stated, "Bat speed brings more hits. It's not everything, but I want to utilize my strengths consistently." He emphasized his aim to improve continuously and make the most out of his abilities, as strong performances translate to more success at the plate.
The previous day, on March 15, against the Chicago Cubs, Morishita had already set the pace with even higher bat speed, reaching 186.2 km/h, again the best among players from both teams. Such stats not only demonstrate his raw talent but also highlight the adaptation skills he is developing against high-caliber pitchers.
After his fourth-inning double, Morishita celebrated with the now-famous “Kike Pose,” popularized by Dodgers player Kike Hernandez. This charming gesture amused his teammates and added to the positive energy of the game. The exuberance of the moment reflected not only the excitement of the Tigers' performance but also the camaraderie forming within the new squad.
The Hanshin Tigers' victory against the integrated MLB talent signifies more than just preseason success; it serves as a statement of their potential as they strive for the championship this season. With players like Morishita, who have aspirations to play at even higher levels, the future seems bright for the Tigers.
This thrilling matchup against the Dodgers has surely caught the attention of major league scouts, particularly with the remarkable showing of young players such as Morishita. His blend of speed and skill may well place him on the radar for future opportunities abroad, as he aspires to join the ranks of those who have transitioned successfully to major leagues.
Indeed, as Morishita's skills shine brightly, his focus remains on cultivating every aspect of his batting, aiming not only for personal accolades but also for the glory of his team. His determination and consistent performances are paving the way for what could become one of the most exciting seasons for the Hanshin Tigers yet.