2026.3.27
The 2026 JERA Central League season opened on March 27, with the Tokyo Giants defeating last season’s league champions and longtime rivals, the Hanshin Tigers, 3–1 at Tokyo Dome.
Rookie pitcher Kazuyuki Takemaru, who became the first rookie in 62 years to start a season opener for the Giants, delivered an outstanding performance, allowing just one run on three hits over six innings. He also became the first rookie in franchise history to earn a win as an Opening Day starter.