Yomiuri Giants News Recap – December 25, 2025

Offseason Updates, Leadership Changes, and the Road to 2026

Hello everyone!
I’m the manager of this blog and a Yomiuri Giants fan for over 10 years.

December 26 marks “Professional Baseball Day” in Japan, making it the perfect time to look back at Giants-related news from Christmas Day (December 25) and review the latest offseason developments.

Even without games, the Giants were far from quiet. From first-team restructuring and player development to foreign signings and fan-focused topics, December 25 was filled with news that will shape the 2026 championship comeback. Let’s take a closer look.

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First-Team Highlights｜A New Captain Takes Charge

Yoshinori Kishida’s Leadership and the “Three Promises”

Yomiuri Giants newly appointed captain Yoshinori Kishida spent Christmas Day in voluntary training, working on core strength using medicine balls while speaking candidly about his vision for the team.

At the heart of his leadership philosophy is what he calls the “Three No’s Pledge”:

• No losing momentum – Recover quickly during losing streaks
• No holding back – Create an environment where young players can speak freely
• No over-reliance – Avoid depending on specific stars; win as a team

With the revival of the captain system, the Giants are clearly moving toward a more open, team-first culture.

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Pitching Staff Update｜Steady Evolution on the Mound

Kenshin Hotta is spending the offseason refining his mechanics, studying relaxed pitching techniques and experimenting with a glove inspired by former Giants ace Ridel Martínez to improve consistency.

Meanwhile, closer Taisei reaffirmed his determination at a fan talk event, emphasizing his readiness to shoulder the responsibility of the ninth inning once again.

Confidence in the bullpen remains high heading into 2026.

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Foreign Reinforcement｜Brian Mata Joins the Giants

Brian Mata**, formerly in the Boston Red Sox organization, has agreed to terms with the Giants.

If his control stabilizes, Mata could become a valuable dual-option arm, capable of contributing as either a starter or reliever. His early interactions with fellow foreign players on social media have already sparked positive reactions among fans, signaling strong clubhouse chemistry.

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Farm System & Player Development｜Building the Future

The Roots of a Giant

Developmental player Mikiya Kinoshita reflected on his formative experience at the NPB Junior Tournament, saying it was when he truly fell in love with baseball.

That passion, nurtured at the farm level, represents the Giants’ long-term vision: develop from within and grow sustainably.

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Giants Women’s Team｜Dedication Beyond the Holidays

The Yomiuri Giants Women’s Team continued training even on Christmas Day. Practice footage released on YouTube showcased their professionalism, discipline, and commitment—clear proof that the Giants’ development-first culture spans the entire organization.

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Around the Team｜Offseason News Fans Can Enjoy

• Hisayoshi Chono appointed as a front-office advisor
• Charity auction featuring hero plates from Kazuma Okamoto and Chono
• Buzz around BLACKPINK × Tokyo Dome × Giants collaboration merchandise

These stories highlight how the Giants brand continues to expand beyond baseball, reaching new audiences year-round.

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Final Thoughts｜The Offseason Builds Championships

December 25, 2025, may have been quiet on the field, but it was deeply meaningful for the Giants:

• First team: New leadership and roster reinforcement
• Farm system: Young players reconnecting with their roots
• Organization-wide: Strategic planning for the future

It was truly a “quiet but crucial day.”
What happens during the offseason will define the results of 2026.

Which piece of news stood out to you the most?
Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!

Next up: Year-End Review & 2026 Season Outlook
Go Giants! 🧡⚾

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