Hanshin Department Store

A Central League baseball game between the Yokohama DeNA BayStars and the Hanshin Tigers is drawing major attention in Japan. The two clubs are perennial contenders, and interest in the matchup is compounded by excitement around Hanshin, whose championship win has already sparked victory sales, with thousands queuing at Hanshin department stores in Osaka.

Fujikawa Kyuji, the longtime Hanshin Tigers closer, is a trending name in Japan. Interest comes as the Tigers celebrate winning the Central League title, with anniversary sales underway at a department store in Osaka. Fans are recalling the club's championship era, in which Fujikawa played a central role as its star relief pitcher.