On the 22nd, Softbank announced that former Fukuoka Softbank Hawks manager Kimiyasu Kudo will throw the opening pitch at the first game of the "SMBC Japan Series 2025," to be held at MIZUHO PayPay Dome FUKUOKA on October 25th, and sopranist Tomotaka Okamoto will sing the national anthem.

▼Kimiyasu Kudo

"I am honored to have been selected to throw the opening pitch at the first game of the Japan Series. I will do my best."

▼ Tomotaka Okamoto

"I am truly honored to be able to sing the national anthem in Fukuoka at this most important moment, the opening game of the Japan Series. I hope that all the players will perform to the best of their ability, and I will sing the national anthem with all my heart and in the spirit of harmony."