In a thrilling display of talent and determination, Chunichi Dragons' pitcher Subaru Sugane made a remarkable impression during his first home game of the season on May 6, 2025. Taking the mound at Vantelin Dome Nagoya, Sugane not only showcased his skills but also set a personal best by throwing a fastball clocked at 155 km/h. This performance came during a challenging game against the DeNA BayStars, where the Dragons were trailing 0-3 in the seventh inning.
As the crowd roared in excitement upon hearing the announcement of "Pitcher Sugane," the atmosphere in the stadium was electric. Sugane's first pitch, a 150 km/h fastball, allowed lead-off hitter Austin to reach base with a solid hit to center field. However, the Dragons quickly regained control when catcher Takuya Kinosita made a stellar throw to catch pinch runner Hayashi attempting to steal second base.
With two outs, Sugane faced off against Sano, who he successfully retired with a flyout to left field. Although he allowed a two-base hit to Mishima, Sugane's competitive spirit surged as he prepared to face his former Osaka Toin High School teammate, Matsuo, who was brought in as a pinch hitter. It was a defining moment for Sugane, who felt the pressure of the rivalry.
In a display of sheer determination, Sugane delivered his fastest pitch yet—a blazing 155 km/h fastball on the second pitch to Matsuo. The crowd erupted in cheers as the scoreboard lit up with the impressive speed. Sugane's focus remained unshaken, as he closed out the inning by striking out Matsuo with a perfectly placed slider, marking his third consecutive scoreless appearance this season.
After the game, Sugane reflected on his performance, stating, "It's not bad that the ball speed comes out, but I don't want to just seek ball speed as pitching. I want to focus on being effective on the mound." His humble approach highlights the maturity he has developed as a pitcher, emphasizing that speed alone does not define a successful outing.
Despite Sugane's impressive performance, the Dragons ultimately fell to the BayStars with a final score of 0-3. The game was a testament to the fierce competition in the Central League, with Chunichi struggling to find its footing this season. Nevertheless, Sugane's personal achievement stands out as a bright spot in an otherwise challenging matchup.
This season marks a significant turning point for Sugane, who has continued to impress with his consistent performance. With three appearances under his belt, he has yet to allow a run, showcasing his potential to become a key player for the Dragons as they navigate through the season.
As the Dragons prepare for their upcoming games, fans are hopeful that Sugane's recent success will inspire the team to turn their fortunes around. With his combination of speed and skill, the young pitcher is poised to make a lasting impact in the league.
In conclusion, Subaru Sugane's remarkable performance in his first home game of the season not only set a personal record but also highlighted his growth as a pitcher. As he continues to develop his skills and contribute to the team, fans eagerly anticipate what the rest of the season holds for this promising talent.
