Former Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters pitcher Yuki Saito (37) announced on his Instagram that he will be the ceremonial first pitch guest on June 6 at the Yakult Swallows vs. Nippon-Ham Fighters game, which also happens to be his birthday.
Sharing a photo of himself pitching at Jingu Stadium during his Waseda University days, Saito wrote: “I’ll be throwing the ceremonial first pitch at Jingu Stadium on June 6 (my birthday)! It’s the day of the Tokyo Yakult Swallows vs. Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters game.”
He further shared his emotions: “Jingu Stadium is a very special mound for me—it’s where I experienced so much joy and disappointment during high school and my Waseda University days. It feels like my home base. Being able to throw a ball again at a place filled with such memories is truly an honor, and my heart is already racing with excitement.”
Saito added: “With gratitude, I’ll give it my all. To everyone coming to the stadium that day, please give me your warm (and a little gentle…) support! I look forward to seeing you at the ballpark!”
The former pitcher will appear as a guest for the ceremonial first pitch of the “Meiji Jingu Gaien 100th Anniversary JINGU STADIUM DAY” event.
