2025 NPB Best Battery Award Announced, Honoring Both Leagues' Stars
The '2025 NPB Best Battery Award,' established by Sports Nippon Newspapers, was announced today. From the Central League, Hanshin Tigers' pitcher Shoki Murakami and catcher Seishiro Sakamoto were selected, and from the Pacific League, Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters' pitcher Hiromi Itoh and catcher Torai Fushimi were chosen. This season, both batteries supported their teams with outstanding combinations, deeply moving many fans. Representing the Central League, the 'Murasaka Battery' – Hanshin Tigers pitcher Shoki Murakami and catcher Seishiro Sakamoto – were selected. Fans showered them with congratulatory messages, exclaiming 'Undeniable choice!' and 'Congratulations!'. In particular, Sakamoto's skillful leadership in guiding Murakami's superb pitching to build a solid defense was an indispensable factor in the Hanshin Tigers' remarkable season. For Murakami, who had stated his ambition to win this award since last year, it was a true ...