◆ Sports Hochi Journalist Column "From Ryogoku"
My image of him was completely overturned. The biggest surprise since I started covering Rakuten Eagles was seeing Ryosuke Tatsumi. This season, the naturally gifted outfielder is the one on the bench who's been the most gritty, shouting encouragement from the sidelines, pushing his teammates forward. When I asked him about his intentions, he revealed them with a slightly playful tone.
"When I encourage or praise everyone, they seem happier than anyone else (laughs). So this year, I'm focusing most on speaking up and encouraging others."
Tatsumi is often highlighted not only for his Golden Glove Award-winning defense and outstanding hitting, but also for his surprising and tricky behavior. His all-gold outfit at the awards ceremony is one example. However, this season is different. Leading with his play is a given, but on top of that, he has also set himself the task of being a more intangible metric: his voice.
A single word from him can change the atmosphere on the bench. The team can look forward. He consciously chooses his words because he is aware of his influence. His traditional image as a "free spirit" is gradually transforming into that of a leader.
He doesn't intend to leave it at just words. "I'm in a position where I have to lead by example through my play. I hope to continue doing both." Last season he struggled at the plate, but this season he has maintained a high ranking in both batting average and on-base percentage since the start of the season. His performance on ground and his dedication to the team—it's as if he's saying that he exists because of both of those things working together.
The team struggled in May, languishing at the bottom of the standings. It is precisely during these times, when a heavy atmosphere is likely to prevail, that this man's true worth will be put to the test. It's not just the sharp sound of the ball being hit that resonates through Sendai; it's also Tatsumi's vibrant voice, shining brightly upon his teammates. (baseball correspondent: Kota Miyauchi)
◆Kota Miyauchi: Joined the company in 2022. After working as The Giants beat reporter, he took on his current position this season.
