The WBC Has Come to an End

The WBC is finally over. Team Japan finished in the Round of 16. To all the players, thank you so much for your hard work and dedication.

I had the chance to watch the Czech Republic game in person. I was so excited leading up to the match, but when I found out that Shohei Ohtani and Seiya Suzuki wouldn't be playing, I was genuinely heartbroken. I really wanted to see them play live. Especially Ohtani—I wanted to see him at bat just once, you know?

Young Stars Stepped Up

That said, Teruaki Sato and Shota Morishita, who both performed well against Venezuela, came through again in the Czech Republic game, which made me feel a bit better about it all!

These two were absolutely fantastic. Being able to watch young players shine on the international stage like this is one of the best moments you can have as a baseball fan. Sato's powerful swing, Morishita's energetic play—this experience is going to be invaluable for both of them going forward.

The fact that not just veterans but also young players were able to gain this kind of experience at the WBC is really great for the future of Japanese baseball.

The Pop-Up Store Mural Was Completed

By the way, remember that mural at the pop-up store at the venue? When I came last time, it was still unfinished, but this time it was complete. It looked absolutely amazing!

Looking at the finished mural, I felt this wave of emotion like, "Wow, we've really come this far with the WBC." It'll be a long wait until the next WBC, but I want to hold onto this excitement and energy.

To everyone on Team Japan, thank you for the incredible memories. I'll definitely be there in person to cheer you on at the next WBC!