WBC First Round Group C Japan 8-6 Korea (7th, Tokyo Dome)

outfielder Ukyo Shuto, who came on as a substitute, energized the team with his fine play.

In the eighth inning, he came in as a pinch runner for Murakami, who hit a single to right field, and successfully stole second base. Although he didn't score, he played center defense in the ninth inning. He safely caught a wall ball from Kim Do-young, who was the first batter, and then stretched his left arm as far as he could and made a jumping catch catch Jones's huge fly ball, which was right on wall. The nine players on the bench all stood up in response to this super play that saved their guardian angel, Daisei. Shuto also raised his left hand, wearing his glove, and responded with a smile.

"I had been preparing since the sixth inning. I was chasing it thinking I had no choice but to catch it, so I'm glad I was able to catch it. It would be easier for the pitcher to catch it normally, and I didn't think it was a flashy play. It just happened that way," he reflected. He also received many congratulations from his teammates, and expressed his gratitude for their encouragement, saying, "Everyone told me how amazing I was, so I'd like to eat my meal today with that in mind."

With two outs in good time, Osawa got Lee Jong-ho to ground out to first base, ending the game. The Samurai closer bowed his head and said, "I thought it might be home run, but (Shuto) caught it. It was a big play for me."