Hanshin Selects Toyota for Starting Lineup; Haraguchi on Bench, Saiki to Pitch
The SMBC Japan Series 2025 features an exciting matchup between the Hanshin Tigers and the SoftBank Hawks. The third game of this series took place at Koshien Stadium on October 28, 2025. In a significant shift, the Tigers announced their lineup, showcasing new talent and strategic decisions as they prepared to face SoftBank’s starting pitcher, Mojero.
Hanshin’s Starting Lineup for Game 3
For this crucial game, the Hanshin Tigers introduced an unexpected element to their lineup. Outfielder Hiroshi Toyota, aged 28, was selected for the sixth spot. This marked Toyota’s first inclusion on the bench for this series, quickly earning a position in the starting lineup.
Key Players and Positions
- 1st Base: Chikamoto
- 2nd Base: Nakano
- Right Field: Morishita
- Third Base: Sato Teru
- First Base: Oyama
- Left Field: Toyota
- Catcher: Sakamoto
- Shortstop: Obata
- Pitcher: Saiki
Despite the new face in the lineup, established players including Chikamoto, Nakano, Morishita, Sato Teru, and Oyama maintained their positions from earlier games. The team aimed to build on their strategies against SoftBank’s starting pitcher.
Notable Exclusions
Among the updates, players Haraguchi and Maekawa joined the first team but were not included in the game day roster. Their absence indicates ongoing strategic adjustments within the Tigers’ lineup.
Overall, the Hanshin Tigers are poised to make a strong impression, leveraging both experienced players and fresh talent as they continue their pursuit in the 2025 Japan Series.
