The highly anticipated semi-final of the 97th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament took place on March 28, 2025, at Koshien Stadium, featuring a showdown between Ken University Takasaki and Yokohama. This match was particularly significant as it marked a rematch of the previous autumn's Kanto Tournament final, where Ken University Takasaki had suffered a narrow defeat.
Ken University Takasaki's ace, Genki Ishizue, a third-year pitcher known for his impressive fastball that can reach up to 158 km/h, took to the mound with high expectations. Ishizue was on standby as a relief pitcher, having previously set a tournament record with a pitch clocked at 155 km/h in the quarter-finals against Hanamaki Higashi. His performance in that match had built considerable momentum for his team.
The game began with Ken University Takasaki looking to avenge their earlier loss to Yokohama. Coach Hirofumi Aoyagi had indicated that either Ishizue or left-handed pitcher Shigeto Shimo would start, but it was clear that Ishizue was eager to take on the responsibility. He expressed his determination, saying, "I practiced all winter with the mindset of not wanting to lose again after last year." This determination was palpable as he took the mound.
In the fourth inning, with Ken University Takasaki trailing by two runs, Ishizue entered the game and showcased his remarkable skills. He struck out three consecutive batters, throwing a series of fastballs that consistently exceeded 150 km/h, with his fastest reaching 154 km/h. It seemed he was poised to keep the game within reach for his team.
However, the fifth inning proved to be a turning point. Ishizue’s performance faltered as he faced a barrage of hits from the Yokohama lineup. After allowing a hit to Yokohama's center fielder, Yuta Abe, that brought in a run with no outs and runners on second and third, the pressure mounted. Ishizue subsequently gave up two more runs—one from a timely hit by first baseman Shunyu Ono and another from a push-out walk to Iori Kano, leaving the score at 0-5 by the end of the fifth inning.
As the game progressed, the Ken University Takasaki team struggled to regain their footing. The Yokohama squad, led by their ace pitcher Tsubasa Orida, who had been battling a finger injury but was recovering, maintained their strong offensive strategy. Orida’s performance on the mound complemented the offensive efforts of his teammates, who capitalized on Ishizue’s missteps.
Throughout the game, the atmosphere was electric, with fans from both sides cheering passionately. Ken University Takasaki's supporters were particularly vocal, hoping to see their team mount a comeback. The players were visibly determined to turn the tide, with Ishizue reflecting on his earlier successes and the lessons learned from past encounters with Yokohama.
Despite the early setbacks, Ken University Takasaki remained focused. Ishizue, who had trained rigorously during the winter, including lower body strengthening exercises, was determined to showcase his capabilities. He had analyzed the previous match against Yokohama, where he allowed the game-winning hit in a tense 10-inning showdown. This time, he was adamant about not repeating past mistakes.
As the fifth inning closed with a score of 0-5, Ken University Takasaki faced an uphill battle. The team knew they had to rally quickly if they were to have any chance of advancing to the finals. Coach Aoyagi and his players were strategizing for the next innings, hoping to exploit any weaknesses in the Yokohama defense.
The remainder of the match saw Ken University Takasaki trying to break through Yokohama’s defenses, but the combination of solid pitching from Orida and timely hitting from Yokohama’s lineup made it difficult. The tension in the stadium was palpable as fans anxiously awaited any sign of a comeback.
In the post-game press conference, Ishizue reflected on the challenges faced during the match. He acknowledged the pressure of the moment and the importance of maintaining composure on such a grand stage. "I gave it my all, but today wasn’t meant to be. We’ll learn from this and come back stronger," he stated, showing maturity and sportsmanship.
As the match continued, Ken University Takasaki's fans remained hopeful, chanting and cheering for their team to find a way to score and close the gap. The players, motivated by their supporters, were determined to put up a fight until the last out was recorded.
The semi-final match between Ken University Takasaki and Yokohama not only highlighted the talent of young athletes but also underscored the fierce competition present in high school baseball. With the score at 0-5 after five innings, the game was still in progress, and the outcome remained uncertain. Both teams were giving their all, demonstrating the spirit of high school baseball that captivates fans year after year.
As the final innings approached, all eyes were on the field, with fans eagerly anticipating a dramatic conclusion. Would Ken University Takasaki manage to turn the game around, or would Yokohama secure their place in the finals? The excitement was palpable, and the stakes could not have been higher.
The story of this match, filled with ambition, rivalry, and the relentless pursuit of victory, is a testament to the passion that drives high school athletes. As the game unfolded, it was clear that this was more than just a match; it was a battle for pride, redemption, and the chance to make history at Koshien Stadium.
