Atsushi Nomi came to the Koshien History Museum as its director for the day.
Next to Koshien Stadium. At Koshien Plus.
Last Saturday. Around 9 a.m.
It was held on the 3rd floor, where the Koshien History Museum is, in the multipurpose hall at the back near ProgLab.
This was the venue.
Lots of media people were seriously standing by, ready to capture the perfect moment of Nomi. They looked so cool all lined up and focused!
The staff started a countdown from five minutes before the start, and the tension was real. Everyone was looking forward to it, so the timing was super strict.
The host, freelance announcer Maki Kayama, loosened up the mood with her opening greeting. She’s such a Hanshin fan that she even went to see the jet balloons the next day on 3/9, so she was perfect for the role!
Nomi came iiiiiin!
When he made his entrance, Nomi had this slightly shy, adorable vibe.
This microphone.
Yep, it’s so high upIt was just a small exchange, but somehow really heartwarming.
The host asked, “So, straight up, what are their chances of winning the championship?”
In 0.1 seconds, he instantly answered, “I have absolutely no idea!” lol But he did say the team has more than enough strength and should finish near the top.
Born in Nishinomiya!! A true Miyanokko, Koshien guardian and stadium manager Mukai presented Nomi with the sash for his role as director for the day.
Now this was a photo op!
Cameras clicking away like crazy. Everyone in attendance looked like they were having such a great time.
“Once again, let’s have a photo session here.”
We’re doing it again? lolNomi’s quick comebacks were hilarious and really livened up the room.
Still, he struck the pose properly every time.
After being photographed nonstop, he quietly muttered, “It’s kind of embarrassing doing this by myself.” That pure side of him is just the best.
After all that, as part of his duties as director for the day, he handed out original business cards to everyone taking part.
He handed them to each person with such a big smile that…
Men and women alike were totally smitten.
He even handed one to a baby. His fan service is amazing!
Of course, he also talked about baseball. Actually, about 90% of it was serious baseball talk, so here’s a loose summary.
How strong are the Hanshin Tigers this year?
✔ “In terms of talent, they’re more than good enough. They’ll definitely be near the top.”
✔ With young players and regulars coming together, they have become a well-rounded team
✔ The key will be how unexpected accidents during the season, like injuries, affect them
Which young players should we watch?
✅ Taisei Kudo (23)
“When I saw him at camp, he was throwing some unbelievable pitches.”
“He was just registered under team control, but what he has is incredible.”
✅ Ukyo Maegawa (21)
“He’s a prime example of a young player who has leveled up.”
“He was a player who had that presence from the start.”
✅ Nozomu Takatera (22)
“Being able to play multiple positions is huge for the team.”
“Getting more opportunities to play is a plus for the player, too.”
Advice for Shoki Murakami as Opening Day starter
💡 “First, focus on pitching your own game.”
💡 “The Opening Day starter doesn’t need to worry too much about pitching deep into the game.”
💡 “I want him to take in the unique atmosphere of Opening Day while keeping an eye on what’s around him.”
👉 Position players get nervous on Opening Day too, so it’s important to be aware of the overall mood
What’s the key to winning the championship?
🛑 “
