On the 12th, Lotte announced that players from professional sports teams based in Chiba Prefecture will be attending their Rakuten Eagles against Rakuten on June 21st.
On that day, under the theme "ALL FOR CHIBA. UNITY IN SPORTS.", and with the aim of "revitalizing Chiba and the region through sports," four teams—JEF United Ichihara Chiba, Kashiwa Reysol, Altiri Chiba, and Chiba Jets—will be welcomed, bringing together a total of five professional sports teams, including The Marines, to Zozo Marine Stadium for a special day that transcends the boundaries of different sports.
Guests for the day include Daisuke Suzuki (JEF United Ichihara Chiba), Taiyo Koga (Kashiwa Reysol), Takaaki Kida (Altiri Chiba), and Fumio Nishimura (Chiba Jets). They will participate in a talk show before the match and will also take to the ceremonial pitch.
▼ JEF United Ichihara Chiba - Daisuke Suzuki
"It's an honor to be able to participate in an opportunity like this where all the professional sports teams from Chiba gather together. It's my first time throwing the first pitch, so I'm a little nervous, but I'll throw it with all my might to liven up the venue!!"
▼ Kashiwa Reysol - Taiyo Koga
"I grew up in Urayasu City, Chiba Prefecture, so I'm incredibly happy to have the opportunity to throw the first pitch at a Chiba Lotte Marines game. It's my first time, so I want to enjoy it and throw with all my heart. I'm really looking forward to seeing everyone at the stadium."
▼ Artiri Chiba Takaaki Kida
"I am very happy to be able to participate in an event hosted by Chiba Lotte Marines team that represents Chiba. I will enjoy participating together with the fans, hoping to further liven up Chiba through sports and convey the charm of Chiba!"
▼ Chiba Jets Fumio Nishimura
"I'm so happy to have been asked to participate in this event, and to be able to appear at a Chiba Lotte Marines event for the first time in several years! This will probably be my last event as a player, so I'll do my best to have fun with everyone and liven up the stadium as much as possible. Thank you for your support."
