Hiroshima Carp outfielder Tamura Shunsuke (22) is set to be promoted to the first team for the first time this season, starting with the game against the Yomiuri Giants on May 12 in Gifu. He will serve as a replacement for Akiyama Shogo, who was sidelined due to a left hamstring strain.
Akiyama suffered the injury during a game on May 10 against the Yakult Swallows, leaving the game in the third inning after starting in left field and batting leadoff. He is expected to be removed from the active roster and undergo further medical evaluation from May 11 onward.
Tamura has been performing well in the farm league, posting a .305 batting average along with solid on-base ability. Known for his aggressive approach at the plate, the 22-year-old expressed determination ahead of his call-up. “I want to treat this as my last chance and give it everything I’ve got,” Tamura said. “I’ve been working hard in the minors, and now it’s time to show what I can do at the top level.”
This promotion marks a key opportunity for Tamura, who has been aiming to establish himself in the Carp’s outfield rotation. With Akiyama’s absence likely to extend for some time, the team is looking to Tamura to provide a spark offensively and defensively.
The Carp’s schedule continues with a series against the Giants, and Tamura is expected to slot into the outfield, potentially in left field or as a pinch-hitter. Fans will be watching closely to see if he can carry his minor league success onto the big stage.
