Last season, Teruaki Sato won two major batting titles, and many fans of the Hanshin Tigers were moved to tears.
It felt as though he had finally unlocked the true power that we had always believed he possessed. Through the struggles, the pressure, and the expectations, we kept waiting for this moment. And when it finally came, it was overwhelming.
Watching him step up to the plate now carries a different feeling. There is confidence in his swing, strength in his presence, and a calm determination in his eyes. As fans, we can sense that he has entered a new stage of his career.
If he continues to grow this season and reaches even greater heights, it seems only natural that he would challenge himself in Major League Baseball. For a player of his talent, the world is surely waiting.
And yet, when I think about the possibility that this might be the last season we can fully enjoy watching him play here in Japan, my heart becomes a little emotional again. There is pride, of course — pride in seeing a Tigers player shine so brightly. But there is also a quiet sadness, knowing that special moments do not last forever.
Perhaps that is why every at-bat this year feels precious. Every home run feels like something we should treasure.
As fans, all we can do is watch, cheer with all our hearts, and be grateful that we are able to witness his brilliance right now.
by Loose_Wait_2065