Tomoyuki Sugano, one of Japan's leading baseball pitchers, has confirmed his spot in the World Baseball Classic (WBC) after nine years. This news comes as a delightful surprise for fans who have been anticipating Sugano's return to the international stage. A well-celebrated player, his participation is expected to bolster the Japanese team's performance in the upcoming tournament.

Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Japan. The return of top-flight players like Sugano to international play is a significant event for fans and the sport itself. The involvement of local heroes on the global stage incites national pride and fandom, and often leads to increased viewership and support for the games.

In the US or the EU, the return of a well-known player to a major international tournament after a significant hiatus would likely be treated with similar fanfare. Athletes are often seen as national representatives in these circumstances, their individual performances having implications on national pride and identity.