Hanshin’s Yusuke Ohyama to Stay: Press Conference Set for 29th Evening

The “Three Reasons” Behind the Decision to Stay

Yusuke Ohyama, the 29-year-old infielder who exercised his domestic free agent (FA) rights, has decided to stay with the Hanshin Tigers. A sports journalist covering baseball whispered the news:

“On November 29, around midday, the team informed us that ‘Ohyama’s retention press conference will be held this evening.’ While there won’t be a TV broadcast, his comments will be shared on the team’s official website after the conference, and media outlets are expected to report his decision all at once.”

The Hanshin Tigers’ archrival, the Yomiuri Giants, had actively pursued Ohyama. Manager Shinnosuke Abe (45) stated, “I want him to come and be a pioneer in this historic FA era.” Kazuma Okamoto (28) added, “If he joins the Giants, I think we can push each other to improve as fellow right-handed batters.” Even Hayato Sakamoto (35) expressed his hopes with, “Ohyama is such a good guy, I really want him to come.”

“For Ohyama, who hails from the Kanto region, the Tokyo-based Giants were undoubtedly appealing. Moreover, the Giants’ offer significantly exceeded the Tigers’ five-year, ¥2 billion contract. Hanshin’s new manager, Kyuji Fujikawa (44), had also expressed his understanding, saying, ‘FA is a player’s right. It shouldn’t be seen as ‘betrayal.” Even among Hanshin’s alumni, his transfer seemed like a foregone conclusion,” said a Hanshin alumnus.

However, Ohyama chose to stay. As media outlets scrambled to report his sudden declaration of loyalty, a team insider analyzed the reasons behind his decision:

“For a power hitter like Ohyama, Tokyo Dome’s home-run-friendly environment would have been enticing, and the Giants’ salary offer was likely far superior. Yet, there appear to be three key reasons he decided to stay. First, Hanshin offered a longer-term contract than initially expected. Second, Ohyama prioritized avoiding the backlash that might come with transferring over financial gains. Third, the unwavering support of Hanshin fans played a decisive role. During the team’s fan appreciation day on November 23, fans passionately expressed their love with chants for Ohyama to stay. He’s a player who values the fans who support him most.”

What words will Ohyama share with his fans at the press conference? The FA battle between the Giants and Hanshin—an extension of their traditional rivalry—has ended in victory for the Tigers.