Hisayoshi Chono is one of the rare players in Japanese professional baseball who became beloved not only for his performance, but also for his character.
Known for his clutch hitting and sincere personality, Chono earned the respect of teammates and the love of fans throughout his career.
In this article, we look back at:
- 10 legendary stories about Hisayoshi Chono
- Emotional moments that fans still remember today.
1. Refusing the Draft Twice to Join the Giants
One of the most famous stories about Chono is his determination to play for the Yomiuri Giants.
He was drafted by:
- Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters
- Chiba Lotte Marines
However, Chono declined both offers.
His reason was simple:
“I want to play for the Giants.”
Finally, in the 2009 NPB Draft, he was selected by the Yomiuri Giants, fulfilling his dream.
For Giants fans, this story has become a legend.
2. The Walk-Off Grand Slam that Shook Tokyo Dome
One of Chono’s most iconic moments was his walk-off grand slam at Tokyo Dome.
The stadium exploded with cheers the moment the ball left the bat.
Many Giants fans still call it:
“The Dream Arc.”
3. A Rare Mistake That Still Earned Applause
During his time with the Hiroshima Carp, Chono once stumbled while rounding third base and was tagged out at home plate.
Normally, fans might boo such a play.
But instead, the crowd gave him applause.
That moment showed just how much fans respected him.
4. Kindness Toward Younger Players
Chono was well known for supporting younger teammates.
When a young player made a mistake, he would often say:
“Don’t worry about it.”
His calm encouragement earned him deep respect within the clubhouse.
5. His Bond with Hayato Sakamoto
Chono played alongside Hayato Sakamoto for many years.
At one point, Chono described Sakamoto as:
“Someone with a talent for hard work.”
However, many fans believe that Chono himself was the true symbol of dedication.
6. The Team’s Mood Maker
Chono was also known as a clubhouse leader.
Once during a team meeting, manager Shinnosuke Abe said:
“Let’s have some fun and enjoy the game.”
Chono, the veteran on the team, immediately responded with a playful “wai-wai pose”, making everyone laugh and lightening the mood.
7. The Emotional Return to the Giants
After leaving the Giants once, Chono later returned to the team.
When he stepped onto the field at Tokyo Dome again, the crowd erupted in cheers.
It truly felt like the return of a beloved hero.
8. Legendary Fan Service
Chono was famous for being extremely kind to fans.
He always took time for:
- Autographs
- Photos
- Conversations with fans
He was especially known for being very kind to young fans.
9. Respected by Teammates
Many players have said the same thing about Chono:
“He’s an incredible person.”
Within Japanese baseball, he was widely regarded as a true gentleman of the game.
10. Calling His Career “The Best”
At his retirement announcement, Chono said:
“It was the best baseball life.”
Those words moved many fans to tears.
Why Fans Loved Hisayoshi Chono
Chono was loved not only because of his performance but also because of his personality.
Fans admired him for:
- Clutch hitting
- A sincere personality
- Bringing positive energy to the team
He was a rare star who was loved for who he was as a person, not just his statistics.
Summary
Hisayoshi Chono’s career is remembered for:
- His dream of playing for the Giants
- Legendary moments on the field
- A personality that inspired respect
Even today, he is remembered as
one of the true gentlemen of Japanese professional baseball.
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