◆ Sports Hochi Journalist Column "From Ryogoku"

I witnessed a heartwarming 'repayment of kindness.' The 97th Intercity baseball Tournament opened on August 26th. A gift arrived for Mitsubishi Heavy Industries East, which was making its 16th appearance and 4th consecutive one. It was Imabari towels for all players and staff, embroidered with the characters 'B50' and each individual's number. The sender was Orix Buffaloes Ryoma Yamanaka catcher (25), an alumnus of the team.

A skilled left-handed hitter who contributed to the team's first championship as a core player in 2024, which led to him being selected as a fourth-round draft pick that same year. 'Having experienced it myself, I know just how difficult it is to win through the qualifiers,' he said. He wanted to do something for his former team, which had successfully navigated the highly competitive West Kanto qualifiers. Initially, he considered sending flowers but rejected the idea, laughing that 'they would just wither.' Instead, he chose items that would be useful during games, saying, 'I wanted something that could actually be used and would remain as a memento. I think that's what I would have been happiest to receive back then.'

His underlying feeling was one of gratitude, as he said, "In corporate baseball, there is a passion and weight behind every single pitch. It was a truly great experience." Later, a manager from the team sent him a video of the players saying "Thank you!" Former Orix Buffaloes outfielder Kengo Takeda (32), who called to express his thanks, went on a rampage with two home runs and five RBI in the first-round match against Nippon Steel Setouchi on August 27. Yamanaka said, "It really makes me happy. I'm glad I took that action," receiving courage in return from his former team, which started off with a called game victory.

He himself has emerged this season, his second year, with his reliable hitting. However, he struggled in August, batting .160 over 24 games. "I've been inspired by the Intercity Baseball Tournament as well, and I want to produce good results once again," he said. What he gained during his two years at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries East was the ability to concentrate on the battle right in front of him. He will overcome this hurdle and deliver a passionate "repayment" with his bat. (Orix Buffaloes beat writer: Shunta Nambu)

Shunta Nambu. Joined the company in 2024. Has been in his current position since 2025.