“I am grateful to be able to stand on this mound today.”
March 11, 12 years after the occurrence of the Great East Japan Earthquake.
WBC = World Baseball Classic Japan representative pitcher Aki Sasaki, who was born in Rikuzentakata City, Iwate Prefecture and lost his father and grandparents, went up to the mound in Japan on March 11th.
Born in Rikuzentakata City, Iwate Prefecture, which was severely damaged by the tsunami caused by the earthquake, he lost his father and grandparents himself. I can't return the favor, so I want to do my best to deliver courage and hope."
Even on the first WBC mound, he will express that feeling through his own play.
The first pitch I threw with a slightly stiff look turned into a ball, but it was a 162km straight.
After that, I will throw straight balls in the 160kg range and curve balls in the 140kg range in quick succession.
Coach Kuriyama, who saw this, said, "Even on the bench, I could really feel the pitcher Sasaki throwing each pitch with all his heart and soul. Rather than throwing the ball, I felt like I was delivering my thoughts."
Warm applause was sent from the stands who sensed the feelings of pitcher Sasaki, who came off the mound after throwing 66 pitches in the middle of the fourth inning, as well as from the public viewing venue in his hometown, Rikuzentakata, far away.
Pitcher Sasaki, who reappeared in front of the crowd during the hero interview after the game, showed a slightly softer expression, saying, "I'm grateful to be on this mound today."
And before leaving the stadium, he looked back at the game and answered the press.
“First of all, I prepared to be able to pitch myself.
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