The ongoing debate about the unified ball in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) has once again sparked conversation with Tsuyoshi Shinjo, an influential figure in Japanese baseball, offering his perspective. Shinjo, who has played both in the NPB and Major League Baseball (MLB), has given his thoughts on the recent controversy. As the title implies, Shinjo questioned whether the unified ball was affecting the game's dynamics, possibly impacting hits and home runs.

In Japan, baseball is more than a game; it's an integral part of society – deeply ingrained in its culture and history. The implementation of the unified ball in the NPB has created a divide among fans, players, and analysts. Some believe it diminishes the individual characteristics of each team, while others feel it 'levels the playing field'.

The debate over the unified ball is not dissimilar to the conversations about the 'juiced ball' theory in MLB, where it’s believed that changes to the ball’s makeup might have led to an increase in home runs. Both discussions highlight how changes in equipment can significantly impact the game's dynamics and player performances.