Star player of the Hanshin Tigers, Kikuchi, has confirmed his place on the team with a lucrative 5-year contract totaling 2.5 billion yen. The announcement followed intense speculation about the future of Kikuchi within the team. This contract will ensure Kikuchi remains a prominent figure in Japan's Baseball League for years to come, continuing his contribution to the team and boosting morale among players and fans alike.

Japanese baseball fans are passionate and deeply invested in their local teams. The signing of a star player to a multi-year, high-value contract is often a major news event. It generates excitement, cements loyalty, and has economic implications for the team and its corporate backers. High amounts involved also showcase the value of sports athletes in Japan's society and how they are rewarded.

In the US or EU, star player contract discussions, especially in sports like baseball and football, often become public spectacle. Just like in Japan, such news affects not only the sports community but the economy as a whole, affecting sponsorships, merchandise sales, and inflating market values.