Question from Readers:
Regarding Taku Egawa, many longtime professional baseball fans say, “He was amazing,” but what kind of player was he actually back then?
The Brilliance and Charm of Taku Egawa
While drinking with friends, the topic of professional baseball came up, and Taku Egawa was mentioned. Everyone chimed in, “He was truly incredible,” but I couldn’t help but wonder
just how remarkable he really was. Egawa was a pitcher who thrived in the 1980s, especially known for his blazing fastball. His journey from college to the pros was nothing short of tumultuous, reflecting the immense expectations placed upon him at that time. It’s impressive that he quickly claimed the ace position just a few years into his professional career.
Memorable Moments
The first time I saw Egawa play live was during my childhood summer vacation. I remember being taken to Koshien by my parents, and that day, his pitching was absolutely breathtaking. I can still vividly recall how difficult it was for batters to hit that fastball. The sound of the ball hitting the catcher’s mitt resonated like thunder. Moreover, his pitching form was truly beautiful. It was like watching a piece of art, and the excitement from that moment remains unforgettable. After the game, I remember talking with my friends, all excitedly saying, “Egawa is a god!”
An Unexpected Side
However, there was an unexpected side to Egawa as well. In an interview I saw on television, he mentioned that he would eat a lot of snacks before games, which left a lasting impression on me. The thought of a professional athlete indulging in sweets before a game was oddly endearing. I could relate since I had once eaten too many snacks before an important moment, only to have my stomach growl at the worst time.
Final Thoughts
I believe Taku Egawa’s charm lay not only in his statistics and skills but also in his humanity. His passion and determination to chase dreams during that era made him a hero for many of us. Watching him pitch motivated me to strive for my own goals. If any of you have memories of Egawa or stories about your favorite players, please share them in the comments! I would love to relive those passionate feelings from back then.
