Number_i Takes the Field at Dodger Stadium: Yuta Kishi Selected to Throw Ceremonial First Pitch

It has been announced that Sho Hirano, Yuta Jinguji, and Yuta Kishi of the popular Japanese music group Number_i will make an appearance at a pre-game ceremony for the MLB's Los Angeles Dodgers to take part in the ceremonial first pitch. Ahead of their moment on this grand stage, fans flooded social media with enthusiastic messages, propelling “Yuta Kishi” to the number one trending spot.

Appearing in the dugout and on the field at Dodger Stadium, the three members sported official Dodgers jerseys featuring personalized uniform numbers that carry special meaning. Hirano wore the playful number “4649” (a Japanese numerical pun for yoroshiku, meaning “pleased to meet you”), Jinguji chose “8,” and Kishi donned “14.” Kishi's selection of “14” holds deep sentiment, as it was the number he wore during his days playing youth baseball. Fans reacted with deep emotion online, leaving comments such as “His childhood dream came true” and “This is way too touching.”

For this first pitch ceremony, Kishi, who has a background in baseball, will represent the group on the mound. Behind-the-scenes clips and interviews showed the trio beaming with excitement during their practice sessions at the ballpark. Japanese fans showered them with warm encouragement, posting comments like “Their sparkling, boyish smiles are wonderful” and “Cheering for you with all our might from Japan!”

Expectations are soaring to see what kind of pitch and presence Number_i will bring to this world-renowned MLB stage.

The Context

Number_i is a prominent Japanese male pop trio formed in late 2023 by former members of King & Prince under the agency TOBE. The group has rapidly expanded its global presence, including a performance at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival earlier this year. The Los Angeles Dodgers have attracted immense attention in Japan following the high-profile signings of Japanese superstar athletes Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, making collaborations between Japanese entertainment figures and the Dodgers a major cultural highlight both domestically and internationally.

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