All of them have been thrown in 905 games in Japan and the United States as relief. On the 10th it was revealed that Yakult pitcher Ryota Igarashi (41), who has been active for 23 years, has decided to retire from active duty this season only. He has not been registered with the 1st Army since leaving the 1st Army due to poor lower body condition just prior to the start of the season. The team is expected to officially announce it in the near future, and retirement interviews and retirement games are scheduled. Supporting the Yakult bull pen, in 2004 he logged 158 kg, the fastest in Japan (at that time). The quick right arm that challenged the major takes off his uniform.

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It was Igarashi’s return to Yakult in 19 that was well received by both the team and the fans. Many voices of “Welcome back” were heard around the Jingu. After some time after returning, he showed me a photo. It is said that a fan who had been supporting him since he joined the group went to the trouble of bringing the photos he took at the time. “You’re cool. It’s embarrassing now. I wonder if it looks like Kimutaku.” Although it was embarrassing, I was struck by a very happy smile.

Last year, the current 1st Army Trainer Takatsu was in command of the 2nd Army. He also played the role of connecting with the guardian god Takatsu, and was a companion who supported the bull pen. It is said that when the two armies were making adjustments, something hot was in the heart of Director Takatsu, who told the ball umpire that he was a pitcher, Igarashi, in the Eastern League. A friend who knew the active era became the director, and Igarashi also said, “It’s amazing because I’ve been working together all the time.” The last two years should have been an irreplaceable time for many.[Carga de Yakult = Kyoko Hosaka]