The 'Master' Returns: Abe’s Heroics and Rookie Kanamaru’s Dominance Fuel Dragons’ Winning Streak

On April 28, the Chunichi Dragons secured a convincing 3-0 victory over the Yokohama DeNA BayStars at Vantelin Dome. With their pitching and hitting perfectly in sync, the Dragons have now extended their winning streak to a season-high four games. The architects of this victory were Toshiki Abe—the veteran nicknamed "Master" who returned to the team this season—and first-round rookie pitcher Yumeto Kanamaru.

The scoring began in the second inning when the in-form Kaito Muramatsu drove in the first run with an RBI triple. In the fourth, Abe, making his first start in four games, extended the lead by launching a crucial two-run home run into the left-field stands off DeNA’s ace, Katsuki Azuma. This was Abe's first home run since returning to the Dragons, and it proved to be the decisive blow against Azuma, a pitcher who has long haunted the team.

On the mound, starter Kanamaru delivered a masterclass, throwing seven shutout innings without allowing a single walk. Relievers Toshihiro Sugiura and Shinya Matsuyama completed the combined shutout. Kanamaru earned his second win of the season, while closer Matsuyama recorded his third consecutive save.

During the post-game interview, Abe delighted the crowd with his trademark dry wit. Commenting on his return to the starting lineup, he simply said, "I was nervous. That’s all." Following the game, he was seen wearing an original T-shirt featuring his signature "ABE" logo with a beard motif. He also showed his veteran class and dedication to fans by gifting a signed ball to a child in the arena seats.

Coincidentally, the last time Chunichi managed a win against Azuma was in September 2022, just before Abe was traded away. This has led fans to whisper that "Abe was the missing piece to solving the Azuma puzzle." Whether it’s the influence of the "mori-shio" (purifying salt) in the dugout or simply the team finding its rhythm, the Dragons’ offense and defense are finally clicking. It is a perfect start to the intensive Golden Week series.

The context

The Chunichi Dragons, based in Nagoya, are one of Japan’s oldest and most historic professional baseball teams. In recent years, they have struggled with offensive production, making the return of Toshiki "Master" Abe—a fan favorite known for his steady hitting and distinctive beard—a major storyline this season. His trade to the Rakuten Eagles in late 2022 was highly controversial among fans, and his return is seen as a key move to restore veteran leadership. Additionally, the mention of "mori-shio" refers to the Japanese tradition of placing small piles of salt at entrances or in dugouts to ward off bad luck and purify the space. This win is particularly significant as it marks a strong start to "Golden Week," a period of multiple national holidays in Japan where baseball games see high attendance and intense competition.