On the third day of "TEAM26 Day," The Marines alumni Naotaka Takehara and Yoshihisa Naruse appeared to throw out the first pitch.

Pacific League Insight

Naotaka Takehara (left) and Yoshihisa Naruse (right) [Photo: Provided by the team]
Naotaka Takehara (left) and Yoshihisa Naruse (right) [Photo: Provided by the team]

On April 5th, former The Marines players Naotaka Takehara and Yoshihisa Naruse appeared as guests at the "TEAM26 Day" event held at Zozo Marine Stadium. Naruse pitched the ceremonial first pitch before the game, while Takehara played the role hitter pitcher

The event commemorated the 20th anniversary of the team's official fan club, "TEAM26." During the event, Tatsuya Uchi, who was appointed as the "TEAM26" 20th anniversary ambassador, threw out the first pitch on the 3rd, and Naoyuki Shimizu threw out the first pitch on the 4th.

▼Comment from Naotaka Takehara▼
"This batter’s box at Marine Stadium is a place that holds many memories for me, a very sacred place where I've experienced so much, both good and bad. I'm truly grateful to have been able to stand there again. The moment I heard the fans' cheering songs, I got goosebumps, and I realized once again how much they've been supporting me. I was so happy to be able to experience that moment once more. Thank you for giving me this precious opportunity."

▼Comment from Yoshihisa Naruse▼
"This time I didn't throw from mound, but from a little closer, and I was actually worried because the distance was so close, wondering if I could throw properly, if it would be okay (laughs). But even so, the fans welcomed me so warmly today, and I really felt the amazingness and love of The Marines fans. The cheers and applause made me so happy, and it made me realize once again that the time I spent with The Marines was truly enjoyable in my baseball career. Thank you so much for today!"

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On the third day of "TEAM26 Day," The Marines alumni Naotaka Takehara and Yoshihisa Naruse appeared to throw out the first pitch.