The Czech Republic, emerging as a baseball hotspot in Europe, recently hosted a significant international tournament as part of Prague Baseball Week.
This event, which has evolved from friendly exhibition games in 1980 to a competitive world-class tournament, saw Japan’s University Representative team deliver a standout performance.
In a packed stadium, Japan secured a convincing 9-3 victory against a formidable Czech team, which included several World Baseball Classic veterans.
The game’s pivotal moment came in the second inning when Shigeru Yoshinaga hit a two-out single to center field off Ondrej Satoria, a pitcher who had faced Samurai Japan in the World Baseball Classic. Riku Kamisato followed with a hit to right field, giving Japan the lead.
Japan’s momentum continued throughout the game. By the fourth inning, they had extended their lead to five runs. The Czech team showed resilience, scoring two runs in the sixth inning.
MARTIN ČERVENKAAAA!!! 🚀 This rocket flew up to the @sportCT transmission truck and the Czechs are cutting Japan’s lead in the big battle. Welcome back to the national team, Barry! 👋🏻
— BaseballCzech (@BaseballCzech) July 8, 2024
🇨🇿 2 – 5 🇯🇵 | 6th inning#baseballczech #praguebaseballweek pic.twitter.com/CT90Oksd8n
But Japan’s consistent offense proved too strong. The final score of 9-3 reflected Japan’s dominance on the field.
This victory propels Japan into the tournament final, where they will face Chinese Taipei. The two teams previously engaged in a close 3-2 game during the group stage, setting the stage for an exciting championship match.
While baseball in the Czech Republic isn’t as popular as football or ice hockey, events like this showcase the sport’s growing appeal. The tournament not only highlights Japan’s baseball prowess but also underscores the Czech Republic’s increasing importance in European baseball, promising an exciting future for the sport in the region.
A historic battle in an INCREDIBLE atmosphere turned out better for Japan. 🎌 The boys fought like lions on the field, but it wasn't enough for the batting power of the tournament favourites. Tomorrow afternoon for BRONZE against Germany!#baseballczech #praguebaseballweek pic.twitter.com/IryGHlFQkt
— BaseballCzech (@BaseballCzech) July 8, 2024