AFC Champions League" Kanamaru Yumeto practiced shooting 46 goals to prepare for the first game in Taiwan and made a "rare request" to Takahashi Hiroto

Kanemaru Dream Fight. (File photo)

[Reporter Ni Wanjun/Comprehensive Report] The 2026 Asian Professional Baseball Championship will start at the Tokyo Dome on the 12th. The Japanese team will face Taiwan in the first game, and the starting pitcher candidate is gradually becoming clear. "Nikkan Sports" reported that the 23-year-old Chunichi Dragons left-hander Yumeto Kanemaru is expected to take on the important task of starting the first game. He practiced throwing 46 pitches on the pitcher's mound at the Tokyo Dome today to adapt to the game environment in advance.

The Japanese team is making adjustments at the Tokyo Dome today. In addition to Kanemaru, Seibu Lions pitcher Natsuhi Takeuchi and Yomiuri Giants pitcher Takemaru Kazuyuki are participating in practice. Kanemaru did not enter the bullpen, but directly stood on the pitcher's mound in the official game and practiced throwing 46 pitches with straight balls and change-ups.

Regarding the purpose of choosing to pitch on the court, Kanemaru said: "It is to bring myself closer to the state of the official game." He is also satisfied with the current physical condition. "The physical condition is very good. The next step is to control the ball. There should be loud cheers during the official game. I hope I can pitch my own style of play in that tense atmosphere."

Kanemaru was born in 2002. There are as many as 12 players in the Japanese team this year who belong to the "2002 generation", which is also the largest age group in the team. He said: "This time there are many teammates of the same age, and almost all of them are young players. In the future, our generation should become the core of the team. This game is very important to us."

Interestingly, Kanemaru also made demands of his Chunichi Dragons teammate Hiroyuki Takahashi, who was also born in 2002, saying with a smile: "In terms of experience, Hiroyuki should be the richest among us, so I hope he can lead everyone more actively."

But Kanemaru changed the topic and added with a smile: "However, he really likes to be funny and is very good at creating a happy atmosphere. I wonder if he can show a little more leadership skills?" These words made the reporters at the scene laugh.