The final results of the fan voting for the "Mynavi All-Star Game 2026" (July 28th at Tokyo Dome, July 29th at Toyama) were announced on the 7th, and Nippon-Ham Fighters pitcher Hiromi Ito (28) was selected in starter category. In his sixth year as a professional, this is his first selection by fan vote, and he said, "In my first year as a professional (2024 All-Star Game), I thought I would surely get the most votes, but Fukuya Yamazaki took them all (laughs)," referring to his close defeat to the veteran left-hander two years ago, and he was delighted to finally get the most votes.

Having recorded eight wins so far this season, he expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "I truly believe that professional baseball exists because of the fans, and of course, The Fighters fans and baseball fans who support us every day, but I think many people are really looking forward to the All-Star Game, so I want to have fun playing there."

At the 2022 All-Star Game, his first appearance thanks to a manager's recommendation, he caused a stir by throwing an unmeasurable, ultra-slow ball, saying, "I think I'll aim for the slowest pitch in the All-Star Game." Looking ahead to his second appearance at the festival, he hinted at a surprise, saying, "Now that it's been decided (that I'll be participating), I'd like to sneak in something in between."