【Yomiuri Giants Intrasquad Game】

No. 1 Draft Pick Kazuyuki Takemaru Makes a Stunning Debut as Pitchers Dominate (Feb 11)

On February 11, the Yomiuri Giants held a seven-inning intrasquad game at their Miyazaki Spring Camp.

The final score? 0–0.

But while the scoreboard stayed quiet, the performance on the mound spoke volumes.

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No. 1 Draft Pick Kazuyuki Takemaru Delivers in First Live Action

The headline of the day belongs to rookie right-hander
Kazuyuki Takemaru.

Takemaru’s Line

• 1 inning pitched
• 0 hits allowed
• 2 strikeouts
• 0 runs

In his first live-game appearance, Takemaru showed poise beyond his years.
His fastball had sharp life, and his breaking pitches—particularly the splitter—were controlled and composed.

For a pitcher making his camp debut, the outing felt anything but tentative.

👉 At this early stage of camp, that level of polish is a major positive for the coaching staff.

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Keito Matsuura Adds Fuel to the Competition

Newly added arm Keito Matsuura also made his presence felt.

Matsuura’s Highlights

• 3 strikeouts
• Explosive fastball
• Strong tempo and rhythm

With young arms stacking quality outings, the competition for bullpen and rotation spots is heating up quickly.

On this day, the spotlight clearly belonged to the pitchers.

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Captain Yukinori Kishida Records Team’s First Hit

Offensively, opportunities were limited.

Still, team captain Yukinori Kishida recorded the squad’s first hit of the game, offering at least a symbolic spark for a lineup still finding its timing.

This kind of pitcher-friendly contest is typical for early February—hitters are still building rhythm, while pitchers often set the tone.

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Manager Shinnosuke Abe: “Zero Injuries Is What Matters Most”

Observing calmly from behind home plate, manager
Shinnosuke Abe offered a grounded perspective:

“The most important thing is zero injuries.”

At this stage of camp, avoiding setbacks outweighs scoreboard results.

Young players produced.
Veterans stayed healthy.
No unexpected incidents.

👉 From a development standpoint, it was an ideal early-camp outing.

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Overall Takeaway: Pitchers Take the Early Lead

• Final score: 0–0
• Game flow: clear pitcher’s duel
• Takemaru’s impressive first statement
• Matsuura’s strong follow-up
• Offense still in adjustment mode

As camp moves toward its middle phase, the battle among young pitchers is becoming one of the most compelling storylines.

If this trend continues, the Giants’ pitching depth could be a major strength in 2026.

The momentum? Very good. ⚾🔥