Hanshin attracted Orix and won the open game for the first time in five years with 9 wins, 2 losses and 2 draws. The rook was Teruaki Sato, an infielder (22 = Kindai University), who hit 6 home runs in the first draft. Although he missed the final round due to accumulated fatigue and physical strain, he became the first newcomer to become a “home run king” after the draft system in 1966. The rookie, who was close to one more Of the seven recorded by the giant Nagashima who was a rookie in 1983, he said, “It’s an open-play number, so of course it’s important from now on, but being able to leave that number. gave me confidence.” I revealed my sincere feelings to him.

While he attracted national attention, he managed 11 at-bats after dropping No. 6 solo in Seibu’s game on the 17th. Before the game on the 21st, he was hit on the right wing, but due to condition, he took good care of himself and left the bank. Director Yano revealed that it was a decision to make it to the opening at best, saying, “I’m sorry for the fans who came to see Teruaki Sato today, but even if I force him here …”.

The 45 at-bats in open play were second for the team after No. 4 Oyama’s 47 at-bats. Through experience, I got both an answer and a challenge. “I felt like I could catch a ball that came to a nice place if I could move it firmly. There are many things missing. I have to improve the probability of catching it with a single shot and the ability to firmly identify the ball.” In 12 games, the batting average is 30% and 2 RBIs, both with 6 home runs and 9 RBIs atop the team. For the opening day on the 26th, he was enthusiastic and said: “I want to be in perfect condition, including the form and the batting conditions.” We will prepare the situation to contribute to the league victory for the first time in 16 years.[Takao Ishibashi]

▼ Teruaki Sato hit 6 home runs and Hanshin ranked first in open play. Hanshin’s first place in open play has been since 2016, and Hanshin’s open play home point hitting the king has been since Takayama in 2017. It is the first time a rookie has reached base in an open game. since seven Nagashimas (giants) in 1983, and after the draft system (after 1966). Nagashima recorded 29 home runs in the royal game and won the home run king in both the open game and the official game, but what about Teruaki Sato? By the way, the “double win” in open and official games was Softbank in 2015, and the “double base batting king” did not appear in 2002 Matsui (giants = 6 OP games, 50 official games).

▼ In the five-season open game in which Hanshin won the Central League, there is no example of being ranked 1st, 3rd in 1987, 5th in 1964, 7th in 1985, 3rd in 2003 and 4th in 2005. .. Yes Hanshin wins the official game, it will be the first double victory after the division into two leagues.

Click here to access Hanshin’s Twitter account->

Click here for the list of Hanshin News->