Baseball Squads Striving to Combat Japan'sintense Summer Heatwave
In the sweltering summer heat of Japan, professional baseball teams are implementing a series of measures to protect players and fans from heat-related risks. The recent heatstroke incident suffered by Tatsuya Imai, an ace pitcher for the Saitama Seibu Lions, during a game on June 27 at the Belluna Dome stadium in Tokorozawa, Saitama Prefecture, has highlighted the urgency of addressing this issue [1][3][4].
For the comfort of fans, large mist sprayers have been installed near spectator seats in stadiums, helping to cool the air and provide relief from the heat during games [1][3]. Some stadiums, like the Belluna Dome, which lacks a comprehensive air-conditioning system, find these mist sprayers particularly useful in offsetting the scorching temperatures [2].
To cater to the needs of players, teams have introduced new commercial freezers equipped with ice packs placed under the dugouts, allowing players to cool down quickly during games [1][3]. Additionally, some teams are reconsidering their apparel policies in response to the rising temperatures. For instance, the Hanshin Tigers have begun allowing short-sleeve polo shirts instead of suits while traveling to away games, comfortable casual team wear between hotels and stadiums, and even considering shorts during pre-game practice to reduce heat stress, with players wearing spats underneath to minimize abrasions [2].
Further heat management strategies include reducing pre-game training times and encouraging players to stay in air-conditioned environments as much as possible [4]. There are also discussions in the league about rescheduling some games, such as moving second-tier day games to earlier morning start times (e.g., 10 a.m.) to avoid the hottest part of the day [4].
The design of stadiums, such as the Belluna Dome with its roof but no outer walls, may contribute to heat-related issues for players and fans [2]. However, these teams are taking measures to address these challenges head-on, demonstrating a growing awareness of heatstroke risks.
In conclusion, Japanese pro baseball teams combat summer heat by installing mist sprayers for fans, providing players with ice cooling facilities, adjusting travel and practice clothing to cooler options, modifying training schedules, and considering game-time adjustments to minimize heat exposure [1][2][3][4]. As the summer heat continues, it is clear that these teams are committed to ensuring the safety and comfort of both players and fans.
A photo of the new commercial freezers equipped with ice packs, placed under the dugouts, could be a compelling visual for an article about heat management strategies in Japanese professional baseball [1][3]. To promote health-and-wellness, some teams are even considering allowing players to wear shorts during pre-game practice to reduce heat stress, accompanied by spats to minimize abrasions [2].
