On October 2nd, a retirement ceremony for Katsuya Kakunaka was held at Zozo Marine Stadium. Katsuya Kakunaka started the game in the starting line-up as the "number 6, left fielder." The game began with a ceremonial first pitch by his beloved son, and while being watched over by his family, fans, and teammates, he guarded the outfield of his familiar home stadium until the 8th inning.

In the ceremony held after the game, EXPRESS, who sings the walk-up song "Mogura no Uta," appeared. A special movie looking back on his 20-year trajectory was screened to the live performance. Additionally, video messages were sent from alumni Toshiaki Imae and Yuta Omine, Leonys Martín, the comedy duo Pekopa, Kazuya Kamenashi, Hanshin Tigers pitcher Daichi Ishii, and Chunichi pitcher Hideaki Wakui. Finally, Katsuya Kakunaka gave a speech. The following is the full text of the speech.

"First of all, I would like to thank the team officials who prepared today's retirement game and ceremony. I also truly thank Manager Saburo and the coaching staff for letting me play in this final game.

Also, thank you to the many The Hawks fans for staying. Speaking of The Hawks, my first first-team appearance was a game against The Hawks in Fukuoka. The opponent was Kazumi Saitoh.
I still clearly remember stepping into the batter's box for the first time thinking, 'Wow, it's Kazumi Saitoh.'

And above all, The Hawks were truly strong. However, we cannot win the championship unless we beat the five Pacific League teams, including The Hawks. Even so, I believe the current The Marines have many players who could transform significantly if they just find a single spark. I want to see The Marines win the championship and become a perennial winning team. I have high expectations.

Returning to my own story, many people have an image of Kakunaka as being from the Shikoku Island League, and in the independent league, I grew not only in baseball skills but also as a person. Since I am truly indebted to the independent league, I thought the best way to give back was to succeed in the first team, and I have worked hard until now. I think I was able to give back a little.

(Looking up at the sky in silence)

No, I'm sorry. I'm not moved to tears, my mind just went blank... sorry, I'll try to remember (laughter in the stadium).

Also, to all the coaches who have guided me until now. Everything I have been taught—skills, sensations—is stored in my personal repertoire. I will work hard to raise great players in the future using this repertoire.

And, Dad, Mom. Thank you so much for giving birth to a healthy child and raising me.

I have a few more things I want to say, but... I don't really remember them. However, I want these feelings to reach everyone, so I will post a comment on Instagram now.

(Laughter and cheers from the stands)

(Taking out a smartphone and operating it)

Katsuya Kakunaka Instagram (@kaku613)

Please follow me for now, read it carefully after the ceremony is over, and give me the most 'likes' ever.

Lastly, I have truly been supported by many people to get this far. To everyone who has been involved with me, thank you very much. I look forward to your continued support.

And truly for the last thing, to all The Marines fans, thank you so much for your hot, heart-trembling support always, always, no matter the time!"

After the speech, bouquets were presented by batting pitcher Akihiro Fukushima representing the staff, Naoya Masuda pitcher representing the players, his parents, and his family. Finally, while the fight song played from the right-field stands, he circled the stadium surrounded by a large amount of confetti. He exchanged high-fives with teammates and was tossed in the air near the mound. Just like his number "3," he soared through the air three times.

◇ Katsuya Kakunaka Career Statistics
1514 games 5549 plate appearances 1345 hit 250 doble 70 Home Run 564 RBI, batting average .279