Hiroshima Carp left-handed pitcher Hiroki Tokita has vowed to finally get the better of Yomiuri Giants’ Naoki Yoshikawa, a rivalry that dates back a decade. Tokita, who is scheduled to start in the June 12 game against the Giants in Gifu, fondly recalls his college days at Chubu Gakuin University (Gifu Student League) where he played at the same stadium. Over four years, he tallied 21 league wins, paving his way to the professional ranks. He frequently faced Yoshikawa, then at Chukyo Gakuin University, starting from their freshman year. When Tokita started against the Giants in Gifu in 2023, the matchup didn’t materialize, but now he’s eagerly anticipating it. “I think he’ll likely play tomorrow, so I’m looking forward to it. I want to pitch while reminiscing about our college days,” Tokita said.
His memories remain vivid. “I think I gave up at least one hit per game back then,” he recalled with a wry smile. The intense rivalry once drew about 50 scouts to watch them face off. “There was a sense that if I could shut him down, I’d be closer to turning pro. He was such a standout player that scouts came to see him, and that experience was huge for me,” Tokita reminisced. Even in the pros, Yoshikawa has been a tough nut to crack, batting .381 (16 hits in 42 at-bats) against him. “I’ve improved, but so has he. He’s still the better player,” Tokita admitted. A decade after their college days when both were touted as draft prospects, they will renew their rivalry in Gifu. “I’m not going to let him get a key hit,” Tokita declared confidently.
This season, after making his first Opening Day start, Tokita has a 1-2 record with a 2.95 ERA. His goals: “Don’t allow the first run and get the leadoff batter out each inning.” He achieved both in his first win of the season on April 28 against the Giants at Tokyo Dome, holding Yoshikawa hitless as well. In Gifu, Tokita made two appearances in 2023, tossing a combined 14 innings while allowing just two runs (none earned). On special ground, he aims to silence his old rival.
