Japan Secures 21st Asian Baseball Championship Title with Dominant 11-0 Victory Over Chinese Taipei

Japan Claims Record 21st Asian Title

Japan has once again asserted its supremacy in Asian baseball, securing its 21st Asian Baseball Championship title with a resounding 11-0 victory over Chinese Taipei in the final. The championship game took place on Sunday, September 28, 2025, in Pingtan, east China's Fujian Province, concluding the 31st edition of the tournament. This triumph marks Japan's second consecutive championship, further cementing its status as a powerhouse in the sport across the continent.

Dominant Performance in the Final

The final match was a one-sided affair from the outset, with Japan showcasing explosive offensive firepower and a formidable defense. Unlike a closer contest between the two sides during the Super Round, Japan quickly established control, scoring four runs in the first inning and adding three more in the second inning to build an insurmountable lead. The team recorded a total of 15 hits throughout the game, effectively neutralizing any potential comeback from Chinese Taipei and securing the shutout win. Key offensive contributions came from players such as designated hitter Toyo Kumada, shortstop Manami Soeda, left fielder Keisho Amiya, and centre fielder Ryosuke Aizawa, all of whom registered two-hit games. Aizawa notably contributed three RBIs, while Amiya added two RBIs.

Coach's Perspective and Tournament Journey

Japan's coach, Kawaguchi Tomoyasu, reflected on the team's performance, stating, 'Our batting lineup didn't quite click yesterday, but the players' form remained solid. Today, they made the necessary adjustments, came well-prepared, and played together as a team. That's what led to this result. The theme of this tournament for us was to 'enjoy the game.' Only when players truly enjoy baseball can they fully display its charm.' The tournament, which ran from September 22 to 28, 2025, saw eight national teams compete for the coveted title. The event was hosted at venues including the Pingtan International Baseball Stadium and Pingtan Baseball Park.

Qualification for the U-23 Baseball World Cup

Beyond the championship title, the tournament also served as a qualifier for the upcoming 2026 U-23 Baseball World Cup. As champions, Japan automatically secured a spot. Joining them will be runner-up Chinese Taipei and South Korea, who claimed the bronze medal by defeating host nation China 4-2 in the third-place game. The 2026 U-23 Baseball World Cup is scheduled to be held in Nicaragua, providing these Asian teams with an opportunity to compete on a global stage.