Tokyo International News Agency

On July 6, the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles of Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) announced that they have reached a contract agreement with 31-year-old pitcher Junior Marte, who has previously played for the Chunichi Dragons and in Major League Baseball (MLB). The announcement quickly trended on social media, capturing the attention of both Eagles fans and baseball enthusiasts across Japan. A Proven Right-Hander with a 1.95 ERA Last Season Hailing from the Dominican Republic, Marte is a right-handed pitcher with a commanding physical presence, standing 188 cm (6'2") and weighing 99 kg (218 lbs). With 103 MLB appearances under his belt, he spent last season with the Chunichi Dragons, where he posted an outstanding 1.95 ERA over 35 games, proving his ability to adapt and succeed in Japanese baseball. Upon reaching the agreement, Marte expressed his excitement through the team: "I am incredibly honored and excited to join the Rakuten Eagles. Above all, I am deeply grateful....

Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles pitcher Kenta Maeda has finally secured his long-awaited first victory since returning to Japanese professional baseball. In a game against the Saitama Seibu Lions held on June 25, 2026, the veteran showcased his trademark seasoned pitching and rock-solid fielding, clinching his first Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) win in 11 years. During the post-game hero interview, Maeda's signature wit—often called the "Maeken-style"—was on full display. He delighted fans with lighthearted quips like "I'm still young" and "I was really hoping for some more run support." However, the atmosphere turned poignant when he choked up with emotion at the moment of victory, a display of sincerity that deeply touched many supporters. On social media, fans praised his character, calling him "a role model for veterans" who shows "absolutely no arrogance." The internet erupted with congratulatory messages, with fans sayin...

The Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles announced on the 23rd that they have agreed to acquire pitcher Chiharu Tanaka from the Yomiuri Giants as human compensation for pitcher Takahiro Norimoto, who exercised his free agency rights and transferred to the Yomiuri Giants. Expectations are high for the tall right-hander's success in his new team. Pitcher Tanaka is a right-hander with an impressive 189cm physique. He joined the Giants in 2022 as a third-round draft pick from Kokugakuin University. His powerful pitching is highly praised by fans, with comments like "when he's pitching well, his balls are insane," and he was also noted for his suitability as a reliever. Regarding this transfer, Giants fans have expressed sadness, saying "It's sad that Chiharu Tanaka is leaving" and "He was an absolutely necessary pitcher." Many fans are especially disappointed by his departure, as he was loved for his unique personality off the mound, such as singing at the...

Takahiro Norimoto, pitcher for the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles, is set to make his first starting appearance in approximately one year and eight months – specifically, 684 days – against the Orix Buffaloes on August 24th. This decision has become a major talking point among baseball fans. The Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) announced its probable starters on the 23rd, listing Norimoto as Rakuten's starter. For the past two years, Norimoto has supported the team as a relief ace, with all 99 of his appearances being out of the bullpen. Consequently, the sudden news of his starting assignment sparked a flurry of astonished reactions on social media, with comments such as 'Takahiro Norimoto!? A starter...!?!?' and 'This is too shocking!' According to reports, Norimoto commented on his upcoming start against Orix on the 24th, saying, 'My feeling is to go as far as I can.' His veteran resolve and dedicated attitude towards the team have drawn words of gratit...