Hello, Giants fans!
Even in the middle of the offseason, November 6 brought a wave of exciting news for the upcoming 2026 season.
Today, we’ll break down the latest updates from the first and second teams, along with some of the hottest topics around the Giants. Under Manager Shinnosuke Abe’s second-year leadership, the team is already moving full speed ahead!
⚾ First-Team News: Giants to Play in Aomori for the First Time in 73 Years!
The biggest headline this week — the Yomiuri Giants will face the Yakult Swallows in Hirosaki, Aomori on June 30, 2026, at Haruka Yume Stadium!
It’s the first official Giants game in Aomori since 1952 — a 73-year wait. Local fans are overjoyed, flooding social media with comments like “This feels like a dream!”
With Hirosaki Castle visible beyond the outfield, this matchup promises to be a truly memorable event. Tickets are expected to sell out fast, so stay tuned for updates!
Currently, the first team has wrapped up its autumn training, and players are enjoying a brief offseason break.
On the official website, the club also announced departures from the women’s team and players assigned to the Japan Winter League.
A heartwarming moment went viral this week — Kazuma Okamoto was seen chatting with a young fan, perfectly embodying the warm, family-like atmosphere that defines the Abe-era Giants.
🥎 Second-Team News: Takuro Ishii Takes the Helm – A New Era for Young Talent
There’s been major movement on the second-team front.
Former Lotte Marines manager Takuro Ishii has officially been appointed as the Giants’ new second-team manager, greeting players and staff at Giants Stadium.
One particularly touching scene: Ishii shaking hands with Naoki Yoshikawa, signaling a new beginning.
Meanwhile, Masumi Kuwata has stepped down (with no official reason disclosed), marking a full restructuring of the developmental squad.
Ishii has emphasized a philosophy of “developing each player’s individuality,” leading high-energy practices during autumn camp. Fans are already expressing excitement about his player-first approach and commitment to nurturing young talent.
Among those drawing attention is Tatsuya Sakamoto, a 23-year-old developmental catcher who hit .314 in the Eastern League this season. Known for his tireless work ethic, Sakamoto said he aims to become “a catcher who can both defend and run.”
Outfielder Shunsuke Sasaki has also declared his intent to “win the starting center field job,” adding extra fire to a competitive, youth-driven environment.
🔍 Around the League: Tryouts & Coaching Moves
- Pitcher Rei Takahashi and two other players are scheduled to participate in the Able Tryout at Mazda Stadium on November 12 — we wish them success in finding a new home.
- The Giants announced the end of Coach Shinji Inoue’s assignment with the Kufu Hayate project, a move that may signal a broader reorganization of the farm system.
- Former Giant Tetsuya Matsumoto has been named the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters’ first-team batting coach — it’s always inspiring to see Giants alumni thriving around NPB!
💬 Editor’s Note
Even in the offseason, Giants news never stops!
Manager Abe’s recent batting practice video has gone viral, showing his trademark passion and humor.
The 2026 season is shaping up to be something special — and we can’t wait to see how the team evolves under his guidance.
Stay tuned for our next update, featuring “Pre-Camp Insights” as spring training approaches.
Be sure to follow the blog and share your thoughts in the comments! ⚾✨
Sources: Yomiuri Giants Official Site, Sports Hochi, and Official X Posts.
コメント