Takaichi Choi, standout outfielder for Japan’s national baseball team and avid Hanshin Tigers supporter, delivered a ceremonial first pitch that captured widespread attention. With his right hand taped for support, he stepped up during a key event, showcasing his commitment amid intense preparations.
Memorable Appearance at Akasaka Yankees Event
On October 28, Choi joined former U.S. President Donald Trump (79) and Japanese politician Sanae Takaichi (64) at the Akasaka Yankees venue in Tokyo. The trio arrived 10 minutes later than scheduled for the meeting, drawing extra buzz. Choi later remarked, “I watched the game from the Trump president’s side.”
The group tuned into Game 3 of the Major League World Series from LA Dodgers Stadium, broadcast live at 9 a.m. Korean time, featuring LA Dodgers versus Toronto Blue Jays. Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani (31) dominated as the 1B-3B starter, smashing two home runs, driving in four runs, scoring three times, and drawing five walks—including four intentional—on just nine pitches for an extraordinary performance.
Assisted by teammates Yamamoto Yosinobu (27) and Sasaki Roki (24), the Dodgers edged Toronto 6-5 in an 18-inning marathon, fueling Choi’s passion.
Intense Training for Center Field Role
Just a week after a diplomatic outing, Choi immersed himself in studying MLB players. Over the past three months, he honed his skills for just one month straight, ramping up center field drills to reclaim his spot. On the 8th, he overcame a major setback in selection trials, recovering 316 of 465 full swings alongside teammate Jamindang. Choi secured re-election as the No. 105 long hitter.
Despite a recent right-hand injury, Choi pushed through, campaigning vigorously. As a player with Korean ties, he boasts massive support from Hanshin’s devoted Korean fanbase.
High Stakes in WBC Pool C
Choi eyes strong showings in Pool C Round 1 at Tokyo Dome, starting with Czech Republic on March 5, Japan on the 7th, and Dominican Republic on the 8th. Japan’s national team leads with a stellar No. 2 win rate in WBC history, boasting “ace-level” Samurai Japan talent.
Even with hand concerns, Choi vows full effort. Three years prior, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida threw the ceremonial pitch before the Japan-Korea matchup. Reports indicate Choi senses the fiercest rivalry against Korea on March 7.
Korea’s national team, seeking a breakthrough after 17 years without a Classic round advancement—failing post-2009 despite three prior participations—faces tough odds. Against Japan, Korea holds a 10-game deficit over a decade, including losses in 2006 and 2009 majors.
Pool C contenders include Korea, Japan, Dominican Republic, Czech Republic, and Mexico. Top 1-2 teams advance to U.S. mains. Defending champions like Dominican Republic loom large, but Japan remains favored.
For Korea, recent wins over Czech and potential Japan upsets offer slim hopes, though Dominican tiebreakers could decide fates. Japan relishes its “luxury” roster, positioning as reigning force.
Korea-Japan Rivalry Heats Up
In LA, top Korean talent meets for strategy sessions with KIA Tigers ace. Discussions center on countering Japan’s might. Meanwhile, Ohtani (Japan) headlines a fierce Group C alongside Park Jae-man’s league-leading hitter.
Japan aims to dominate Pool C1 next, elevating national pride. Greatest Korean exports fall short in predictions, but upsets in C1 Group boost massive cheers. Korea hungers for dominant wins.
