Welcome to a must-read blog for Yomiuri Giants fans!
Even in the heart of the offseason, the Giants gave us plenty to talk about between December 14 and 15. From packed fan events and players’ determination for next season to an eye-opening interview with manager Shinnosuke Abe, here’s a complete roundup of the latest Giants headlines.
- GIANTS HOMETOWN Fes 2025 Finale｜Smiles Fill the New Farm Stadium
- Coaches & Players Talk Show｜Young Pitchers Share Their True Feelings
- Taisei Talks “170 km/h” Dreams｜The Closer’s Evolution Never Stops
- Youth Development, Women’s Baseball, and the Future of the Giants
- Manager Shinnosuke Abe Speaks Out｜The Resolve to Reclaim the Crown
- Final Thoughts｜The Giants’ Heartbeat Never Slows
GIANTS HOMETOWN Fes 2025 Finale｜Smiles Fill the New Farm Stadium
The final day of “GIANTS HOMETOWN Fes 2025 supported by Kyoritsu Maintenance” was held on December 14 at the brand-new farm stadium, Giants Town Stadium (G-Town).
Although the morning started with cold rain, the weather cleared by midday. About 600 fans attended on the final day, bringing the two-day total to 1,800 families. The new stadium buzzed with excitement and energy throughout the event.
A Hit with Kids! Hands-On Experiences Galore
Fans didn’t just watch—they participated. Popular activities included:
- Baseball skills experiences
- Stadium staff job experiences
These interactive programs left a strong impression, especially on children, many of whom could become future Giants fans—or even future Giants players.
Coaches & Players Talk Show｜Young Pitchers Share Their True Feelings
One of the highlights of the day was the coaches’ and players’ talk show.
Coaches’ Talk (OB Coaches)
- Ryota Wakaya
- Tohru Hashimoto
They shared behind-the-scenes stories about player development in the farm system and how they mentor younger players, keeping fans fully engaged.
Spotlight on Active Players
- Keisuke Izumi (P)
- Shunya Morita (P)
The same-age, same-hometown duo delivered lively banter that fired up the crowd. Izumi, in particular, spoke candidly about his goals for next season:
“I’ve significantly increased my training volume as I prepare to transition into a starter. The cut fastball I’ve been working on since fall camp is almost ready for game use.”
His comments reflected a clear determination to earn a first-team spot—and eventually a place in the rotation.
Taisei Talks “170 km/h” Dreams｜The Closer’s Evolution Never Stops
At the Tokyo event “THE BASEBALL INTELLIGENCE 2025,” the Giants’ dominant closer Taisei took the stage.
MLB Cubs pitcher Shota Imanaga jokingly—but sincerely—commented:
“I think he could hit around 170 km/h. I’m not even joking.”
Taisei responded with a smile:
“I’m a bit confused… but I’ll do my best (laughs).”
He also opened up about why he personally requested a move to the bullpen:
- “I wanted to make an impact right away in my rookie year.”
- On his dramatic entrance lighting: “I sometimes wonder if it’s okay to do that in the 8th inning (laughs).”
Fully embracing the responsibility and uniqueness of being the Giants’ closer, Taisei made it clear—his evolution is far from over.
Youth Development, Women’s Baseball, and the Future of the Giants
Other notable topics pointing toward the Giants’ future included:
Fall GIANTS Cup (Tokyo Tournament)
- Mizumoto Junior High School claimed the championship
- The success of young players continues to light the path forward for the organization
Women’s Baseball Team Update
- Several players announced their departure
- The team is taking its next steps toward restructuring and growth
Manager Abe × No.1 Draft Pick Kazuyuki Takemaru (P)
- “We can’t push him too hard. We’ll decide during camp.”
- A realistic plan involves starting in the farm system before a first-team debut
Manager Shinnosuke Abe Speaks Out｜The Resolve to Reclaim the Crown
On December 13, Manager Shinnosuke Abe appeared on Nippon Broadcasting’s
“Show Up Nighter 60th Anniversary – Meikyukai Radio.”
Reflecting on the 2025 season, he spoke honestly:
“It was a truly frustrating season. Things didn’t go the way we hoped.”
After finishing third in the league and exiting early in the Climax Series, Abe was asked what it will take to reclaim the pennant:
“It comes down to my patience and perseverance. That’s it.”
His words conveyed a deep sense of responsibility, trust in his players, and a willingness to endure. He also touched on veterans like Hayato Sakamoto and Yoshihiro Maru, as well as potential new cleanup hitters, showing that plans for the 2026 season are steadily taking shape.
Final Thoughts｜The Giants’ Heartbeat Never Slows
- Fan-focused events that strengthen the bond with the team
- Positive, determined voices from both young talent and established stars
- A manager with unwavering resolve
Even in the offseason, the Yomiuri Giants’ momentum is clearly building.
The season opener, rotation battles, and emergence of new stars—there’s already so much to look forward to.
Which topic caught your attention the most?
Let us know in the comments, and stay tuned for more Giants news coming soon ⚾
Go Giants!
コメント