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Central League
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Central League
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Central League
セントラル・リーグ
Central League Flag
LeagueNippon Professional Baseball
SportBaseball
FoundedDecember 15, 1949; 75 years ago (1949-12-15)
No. of teams6
CountryJapan
Most recent
champion		Hanshin Tigers (7)
Most titlesYomiuri Giants (39)

The Central League (セントラル・リーグ, Sentoraru Rīgu) or Ce League (セ・リーグ, Se Rīgu), also known as the JERA Central League (JERAセ・リーグ, JERA Se Rīgu) for sponsorship reasons, is one of the two professional baseball leagues that constitute Nippon Professional Baseball in Japan. The winner of the league championship plays against the winner of the Pacific League in the annual Japan Series. It currently consists of six teams from around the country. Unlike the Pacific League, designated hitters are not used during Central League home games. The Central League has voted to adopt the designated hitter beginning in 2027.[1]

History

[edit]

The Central League was founded in 1949 with eight teams: four holdovers from the previous Japanese Baseball League — the Chunichi Dragons, the Hanshin Tigers, the Yomiuri Giants, and the Shochiku Robins (formerly the Taiyō Robins) — and four new teams — the Hiroshima Carp, the Kokutetsu Swallows, the Nishi Nippon Pirates, and the Taiyō Whales.

The Nishi Nippon Pirates existed for one season — they placed sixth in 1950, and the following season merged with the also Fukuoka-based Nishitetsu Clippers (a member of the Pacific League) to form the Nishitetsu Lions, who joined the Pacific League. This brought the number of Central League teams down to an ungainly arrangement of seven.

Ryuji Suzuki became president of the Central League in 1952.[2]

In 1952, it was decided that any team ending the season with a winning percentage below .300 would be disbanded or merged with other teams. The Shochiku Robins fell into this category, and were merged with the Taiyō Whales to become the Taiyō Shochiku Robins in January 1953. This enabled the Central League to shrink to an even number of six teams.

Ryuji Suzuki retired as CL president in 1984 after 33 years at the post.[2]

In 2007, a new Climax Series was introduced. This playoff series was inspired by the stepladder playoff used in the Pacific League introduced in 2004 for the top three teams of the league to determine which one progressed to the Japan Series. Under the previous system, there was no post-season playoff and the winner of the pennant automatically qualified for the Japan Series.

Current teams

[edit]
Team Japanese name Founded[3] Location Stadium Owner
Chunichi Dragons 中日ドラゴンズ
Chūnichi Doragonzu 		January 15, 1936 Higashi-ku, Nagoya, Aichi Vantelin Dome Nagoya Chunichi Shimbun
Hanshin Tigers 阪神タイガース
Hanshin Taigāsu 		December 10, 1935 HQ in Nishinomiya, Hyōgo

Plays between Osaka and Hyogo[4]

Hanshin Koshien Stadium

and Kyocera Dome Osaka

Hankyu Hanshin Holdings
Hiroshima Toyo Carp 広島東洋カープ
Hiroshima Tōyō Kāpu 		December 5, 1949 Minami-ku, Hiroshima, Hiroshima Mazda Stadium Matsuda family [66.7%]
Mazda [33.3%]
Tokyo Yakult Swallows 東京ヤクルトスワローズ
Tōkyō Yakuruto Suwarōzu 		January 12, 1950 Shinjuku, Tokyo Meiji Jingu Stadium Yakult Honsha
Yokohama DeNA BayStars 横浜DeNAベイスターズ
Yokohama DeNA Beisutāzu 		December 15, 1949 Naka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa Yokohama Stadium DeNA
Yomiuri Giants 読売ジャイアンツ
Yomiuri Jaiantsu 		December 26, 1934 Bunkyo, Tokyo Tokyo Dome Yomiuri Shimbun

Central League pennant winners

[edit]
Year Team W L T Postseason Result
1950 Shochiku Robins 98 35 4 Lost 1950 Japan Series 2–4 to the Mainichi Orions
1951 Yomiuri Giants 79 29 6 Won 1951 Japan Series 4–1 over the Nankai Hawks
1952 Yomiuri Giants 83 37 0 Won 1952 Japan Series 4–2 over the Nankai Hawks
1953 Yomiuri Giants 87 37 1 Won 1953 Japan Series 4–2–1 over the Nankai Hawks
1954 Chunichi Dragons 86 40 4 Won 1954 Japan Series 4–3 over the Nishitetsu Lions
1955 Yomiuri Giants 92 37 1 Won 1955 Japan Series 4–3 over the Nankai Hawks
1956 Yomiuri Giants 82 44 4 Lost 1956 Japan Series 2–4 to the Nishitetsu Lions
1957 Yomiuri Giants 74 53 3 Lost 1957 Japan Series 0–4–1 to the Nishitetsu Lions
1958 Yomiuri Giants 77 52 1 Lost 1958 Japan Series 3–4 to the Nishitetsu Lions
1959 Yomiuri Giants 77 48 5 Lost 1959 Japan Series 0–4 to the Nankai Hawks
1960 Taiyō Whales 70 56 4 Won 1960 Japan Series 4–0 over the Daimai Orions
1961 Yomiuri Giants 71 53 6 Won 1961 Japan Series 4–2 over the Nankai Hawks
1962 Hanshin Tigers 75 55 3 Lost 1962 Japan Series 2–4–1 to the Toei Flyers
1963 Yomiuri Giants 83 55 2 Won 1963 Japan Series 4–3 over the Nishitetsu Lions
1964 Hanshin Tigers 80 56 4 Lost 1964 Japan Series 3–4 to the Nankai Hawks
1965 Yomiuri Giants 91 47 2 Won 1965 Japan Series 4–1 over the Nankai Hawks
1966 Yomiuri Giants 89 41 4 Won 1966 Japan Series 4–2 over the Nankai Hawks
1967 Yomiuri Giants 84 46 4 Won 1967 Japan Series 4–2 over the Hankyu Braves
1968 Yomiuri Giants 77 53 4 Won 1968 Japan Series 4–2 over the Hankyu Braves
1969 Yomiuri Giants 73 51 6 Won 1969 Japan Series 4–2 over the Hankyu Braves
1970 Yomiuri Giants 79 47 4 Won 1970 Japan Series 4–1 over the Lotte Orions
1971 Yomiuri Giants 70 52 8 Won 1971 Japan Series 4–1 over the Hankyu Braves
1972 Yomiuri Giants 74 52 4 Won 1972 Japan Series 4–1 over the Hankyu Braves
1973 Yomiuri Giants 66 60 4 Won 1973 Japan Series 4–1 over the Nankai Hawks
1974 Chunichi Dragons 70 49 11 Lost 1974 Japan Series 2–4 to the Lotte Orions
1975 Hiroshima Toyo Carp 72 47 11 Lost 1975 Japan Series 0–4–2 to the Hankyu Braves
1976 Yomiuri Giants 76 45 9 Lost 1976 Japan Series 3–4 to the Hankyu Braves
1977 Yomiuri Giants 80 46 4 Lost 1977 Japan Series 1–4 to the Hankyu Braves
1978 Yakult Swallows 68 46 16 Won 1978 Japan Series 4–3 over the Hankyu Braves
1979 Hiroshima Toyo Carp 67 50 13 Won 1979 Japan Series 4–3 over the Kintetsu Buffaloes
1980 Hiroshima Toyo Carp 73 44 13 Won 1980 Japan Series 4–3 over the Kintetsu Buffaloes
1981 Yomiuri Giants 73 48 9 Won 1981 Japan Series 4–2 over the Nippon-Ham Fighters
1982 Chunichi Dragons 64 47 19 Lost 1982 Japan Series 2–4 to the Seibu Lions
1983 Yomiuri Giants 72 50 8 Lost 1983 Japan Series 3–4 to the Seibu Lions
1984 Hiroshima Toyo Carp 75 45 10 Won 1984 Japan Series 4–3 over the Hankyu Braves
1985 Hanshin Tigers 74 49 7 Won 1985 Japan Series 4–2 over the Seibu Lions
1986 Hiroshima Toyo Carp 73 46 11 Lost 1986 Japan Series 3–4–1 to the Seibu Lions
1987 Yomiuri Giants 76 43 11 Lost 1987 Japan Series 2–4 to the Seibu Lions
1988 Chunichi Dragons 79 46 5 Lost 1988 Japan Series 1–4 to the Seibu Lions
1989 Yomiuri Giants 84 44 2 Won 1989 Japan Series 4–3 over the Kintetsu Buffaloes
1990 Yomiuri Giants 88 42 0 Lost 1990 Japan Series 0–4 to the Seibu Lions
1991 Hiroshima Toyo Carp 74 56 2 Lost 1991 Japan Series 3–4 to the Seibu Lions
1992 Yakult Swallows 69 61 1 Lost 1992 Japan Series 3–4 to the Seibu Lions
1993 Yakult Swallows 80 50 2 Won 1993 Japan Series 4–3 over the Seibu Lions
1994 Yomiuri Giants 70 60 0 Won 1994 Japan Series 4–2 over the Seibu Lions
1995 Yakult Swallows 82 48 0 Won 1995 Japan Series 4–1 over the Orix BlueWave
1996 Yomiuri Giants 77 53 0 Lost 1996 Japan Series 1–4 to the Orix BlueWave
1997 Yakult Swallows 83 52 2 Won 1997 Japan Series 4–1 over the Seibu Lions
1998 Yokohama BayStars 79 56 1 Won 1998 Japan Series 4–2 over the Seibu Lions
1999 Chunichi Dragons 81 54 0 Lost 1999 Japan Series 1–4 to the Fukuoka Daiei Hawks
2000 Yomiuri Giants 78 57 0 Won 2000 Japan Series 4–2 over the Fukuoka Daiei Hawks
2001 Yakult Swallows 76 58 6 Won 2001 Japan Series 4–1 over the Osaka Kintetsu Buffaloes
2002 Yomiuri Giants 86 52 2 Won 2002 Japan Series 4–0 over the Seibu Lions
2003 Hanshin Tigers 87 51 2 Lost 2003 Japan Series 3–4 to the Fukuoka Daiei Hawks
2004 Chunichi Dragons 79 56 3 Lost 2004 Japan Series 3–4 to the Seibu Lions
2005 Hanshin Tigers 87 54 5 Lost 2005 Japan Series 0–4 to the Chiba Lotte Marines
2006 Chunichi Dragons 87 54 5 Lost 2006 Japan Series 1–4 to the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters
2007 Yomiuri Giants 80 63 1 Lost 2007 Central League Climax Series 0–3 to the Chunichi Dragons
2008 Yomiuri Giants 84 57 3 Lost 2008 Japan Series 3–4 to the Saitama Seibu Lions
2009 Yomiuri Giants 89 46 9 Won 2009 Japan Series 4–2 over the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters
2010 Chunichi Dragons 79 62 3 Lost 2010 Japan Series 2–4-1 to the Chiba Lotte Marines
2011 Chunichi Dragons 75 59 10 Lost 2011 Japan Series 3–4 to the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks
2012 Yomiuri Giants 86 43 15 Won 2012 Japan Series 4–2 over the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters
2013 Yomiuri Giants 84 53 7 Lost 2013 Japan Series 3–4 to the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles
2014 Yomiuri Giants 82 61 1 Lost 2014 Central League Climax Series 1–4 to the Hanshin Tigers
2015 Tokyo Yakult Swallows 76 65 2 Lost 2015 Japan Series 1–4 to the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks
2016 Hiroshima Toyo Carp 89 52 2 Lost 2016 Japan Series 2–4 to the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters
2017 Hiroshima Toyo Carp 88 51 4 Lost 2017 Central League Climax Series 2–4 to the Yokohama DeNA BayStars
2018 Hiroshima Toyo Carp 82 59 2 Lost 2018 Japan Series 1–4-1 to the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks
2019 Yomiuri Giants 77 64 2 Lost 2019 Japan Series 0–4 to the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks
2020 Yomiuri Giants 67 45 8 Lost 2020 Japan Series 0–4 to the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks
2021 Tokyo Yakult Swallows 73 52 18 Won 2021 Japan Series 4–2 over the Orix Buffaloes
2022 Tokyo Yakult Swallows 80 59 4 Lost 2022 Japan Series 2–4–1 to the Orix Buffaloes
2023 Hanshin Tigers 85 53 5 Won 2023 Japan Series 4–3 over the Orix Buffaloes
2024 Yomiuri Giants 77 59 7 Lost 2024 Central League Climax Series 3–4 to the Yokohama DeNA BayStars
2025 Hanshin Tigers 85 54 4 Lost 2025 Japan Series 4-1 to the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks

Climax Series winners

[edit]
  • 2025 Hanshin Tigers
  • 2024 Yokohama DeNA BayStars
  • 2023 Hanshin Tigers
  • 2022 Tokyo Yakult Swallows
  • 2021 Tokyo Yakult Swallows
  • 2020 Yomiuri Giants
  • 2019 Yomiuri Giants
  • 2018 Hiroshima Toyo Carp
  • 2017 Yokohama DeNA BayStars
  • 2016 Hiroshima Toyo Carp
  • 2015 Tokyo Yakult Swallows
  • 2014 Hanshin Tigers
  • 2013 Yomiuri Giants
  • 2012 Yomiuri Giants
  • 2011 Chunichi Dragons
  • 2010 Chunichi Dragons
  • 2009 Yomiuri Giants
  • 2008 Yomiuri Giants
  • 2007 Chunichi Dragons

Central League statistics

[edit]
Team First Second Third
Yomiuri Giants 39 12 13
Chunichi Dragons 9 23 14
Hiroshima Toyo Carp 9 7 10
Tokyo Yakult Swallows 9 5 7
Hanshin Tigers 7 19 16
Yokohama DeNA BayStars 2 7 12
Shochiku Robins 1 0 0
Nishi Nippon Pirates 0 0 0

Most Valuable Pitcher

[edit]
See: Best Nine Award#Other notes

Best Nine Awards

[edit]
Main article: Best Nine Award

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Central League

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Central League is one of the two leagues that constitute (NPB), Japan's highest level of , alongside the . Established in 1950 during the reorganization of Japan's structure, the league comprises six teams and operates on a format of approximately 143 games per team, culminating in a pennant race, with the top three teams advancing to the postseason tournament, whose winner represents the league in the against the champion. The league's teams are the (founded 1934, home: , 39 Central League championships), (founded 1935, home: , 7 Central League championships), (founded 1949, home: , 2 Central League championships), (founded 1949, home: MAZDA Zoom-Zoom Stadium Hiroshima, 9 Central League championships), (founded 1950, home: Jingu Stadium, 9 Central League championships), and (founded 1936, home: , 9 Central League championships). The Hanshin Tigers won the 2025 pennant. These franchises trace their roots to the pre-1950 era of Japanese baseball, with the Yomiuri Giants emerging as the league's most dominant team, having secured the most pennants and contributing significantly to baseball's popularity in . In addition to the regular season, Central League teams participate in against Pacific League opponents and the series, fostering rivalries and showcasing top talent. The league maintains traditional elements of Japanese , such as no designated hitter rule until planned adoption in 2027, emphasizing strategic pitching and fielding. Its cultural impact is profound, drawing millions of fans annually and serving as a breeding ground for players who transition to in the United States.

League Overview

Formation and Governance

The Central League was founded in 1950 alongside the as part of the reorganization of Japan's professional under the newly established Organization (NPB), which split the existing Japanese Baseball League (JBL) into two circuits to accommodate growing and participation in the sport following . The JBL, which had operated since 1936 with a single-league format, expanded to 15 teams prior to the split, with eight assigned to the Central League based on factors including regional representation, existing fan bases, and operational viability to promote competitive and financial stability. The league began with eight teams in 1950, but through mergers, it stabilized at six teams by 1953. This structure allowed for approximately 140-game seasons within each league, culminating in the between the champions. Governance of the Central League falls under the NPB's centralized authority, with the NPB commissioner providing oversight for league-wide policies, , and strategic decisions. As of November 2025, Sadayuki Sakakibara serves as NPB commissioner, a role he assumed in December 2022, focusing on initiatives like international expansion and rule modernization. The Central League maintains its own administrative leadership through a league president, who collaborates with NPB executives on internal matters, supported by specialized committees such as the rules committee for gameplay standards and the scheduling committee for fixture coordination. Key bylaws include provisions for revenue distribution between the Central and Pacific Leagues, primarily facilitated through introduced in 2005, which allocates ticket and broadcast revenues from cross-league matchups to help balance financial disparities, as Central League teams historically benefit from larger urban markets. Historical governance adaptations have emphasized safety and integrity, such as enhanced protocols developed in response to fan-related incidents and aviation tragedies affecting team personnel, including the 1985 Japan Airlines Flight 123 crash that claimed the life of Hanshin Tigers president Hajimu Nakano amid the team's championship celebrations.

Teams and Organizational Structure

The Central League of (NPB) consists of six teams, each based in a major Japanese city and tracing its origins to the pre-NPB era or the league's formation in 1950. The current six teams trace their lineages to the original franchises and have formed the stable roster since 1953, following early mergers and contractions. The current teams are:
Team NameHome CityFoundedCorporate Owner(s)
1934 Holdings
1935 Co., Ltd. (part of )
1936 Co.
Yokohama1949DeNA Co., Ltd.
Hiroshima1949Matsuda family (majority stake; Motor Corporation as key shareholder and sponsor)
1950 Co., Ltd.
Each team is corporately owned, a hallmark of NPB structure where franchises serve as promotional assets for their parent companies rather than independent entities, unlike in . Ownership provides financial backing and branding opportunities, with teams often reflecting their sponsors' industries—such as media for the Giants and Dragons, transportation for the Tigers, pharmaceuticals for the , gaming for the BayStars, and automotive ties for the . This model fosters long-term stability but limits independent decision-making, as club operations align with corporate objectives. The league operates in a single-table format without divisions, where all six teams compete head-to-head in a balanced . The regular season consists of 143 games per team, typically running from late to , emphasizing intraleague play with 25 games against each opponent (12 home, 13 away, or vice versa). There is no promotion or relegation system, distinguishing NPB from worldwide; instead, it functions as a closed professional circuit focused on internal competition and culminating in a playoff for the pennant winner. This structure has persisted unchanged since , contrasting with the Pacific League's early mergers and adjustments, ensuring consistent rivalries and operational predictability.

Season and Competition Format

The regular season in the Central League spans approximately six months, from late to early October, with each of the six teams playing 143 games. This schedule features daily intra-league matchups, typically through , allowing for a balanced round-robin format where teams face each other multiple times at home and away. The structure emphasizes consistent competition within the league, culminating in the determination of the pennant winner based on the highest , factoring in ties which are possible under NPB rules after 12 . Unlike Major League Baseball's historical division-based approach to the designated hitter (DH) rule—adopted league-wide only in 2022 after decades of separation between the American and National Leagues—the Central League has not utilized the DH, requiring pitchers to bat in all regular-season games. This tradition persisted even as the introduced the DH in 1975. However, on August 4, 2025, the Central League unanimously approved the adoption of the DH rule starting in the season, aligning both NPB leagues under uniform batting rules for the first time. Interleague play, introduced in 2005, adds cross-league variety to the schedule, with Central League teams competing against opponents in an annual series usually held in . Each team plays 18 interleague games, consisting of three-game sets against all six teams from the opposing league, contributing to the overall 143-game total. For the 2025 season, this portion ran from June 3 to June 22. To resolve ties for the pennant, league rules stipulate a between the tied teams, with the winner claiming the championship and advancing directly to the postseason.

History

Pre-1950 Origins

The roots of the Central League trace back to the emergence of during , evolving from a strong tradition that had taken hold since the sport's introduction in the late by American educators and missionaries. gained widespread popularity through and industrial league play, but the push for intensified amid and media interest. In , media mogul established Japan's first professional team, the Great Japan Tokyo Baseball Club, which laid the groundwork for organized pro competition. This momentum culminated in the formation of the Japanese Baseball League (JBL) on February 5, 1936, as Japan's inaugural professional circuit, initially named the Japan Occupational Baseball League. The JBL launched with seven teams, blending company-sponsored squads and city-based clubs, including the Osaka Tigers (a predecessor to the ) and Shōriki's Tokyo-based entry (which evolved into the ). Key figures shaped the league's early identity, with Shōriki playing a pivotal role as a visionary promoter who leveraged his newspaper influence to popularize the sport and attract talent. Among the standout players was , a Russian-born pitcher who joined the Tokyo Kyojin (Giants' precursor) in 1936 and quickly became a dominant force, winning 20 or more games in multiple seasons and exemplifying the influx of international players that added excitement to the JBL. The league operated with a split-season format initially, playing spring-summer and fall campaigns, and expanded to nine teams by 1939, fostering rivalries that would endure. World War II profoundly disrupted the JBL, reflecting the era's escalating and resource shortages. As deepened its involvement in the , the 1944 season was severely curtailed to approximately 35 games per team due to player , equipment , and air raid threats, with attendance and operations strained by national priorities. The league suspended operations entirely in 1945 amid intensified Allied bombings and mobilization, halting professional play for the first time since its inception. resumption occurred in late 1945 under Allied occupation, but full seasons returned only in with eight teams, many reformed through mergers and reduced rosters as surviving players reintegrated into a rebuilding society. By the late 1940s, the JBL had solidified its professional model, transitioning from its early semi-professional roots—where teams were heavily reliant on corporate sponsorships from newspapers and industries—to a more autonomous structure with salaried players and dedicated management. This evolution addressed financial instability and player welfare issues exacerbated by the war, culminating in the 1949 season as the league's final year under its original banner, with eight teams competing in a unified format. These developments set the stage for the 1950 reorganization into the Central and Pacific Leagues.

Establishment and Early Decades (1950-1980)

The Central League was established in as part of the reorganization of Japan's , splitting the existing Japanese Baseball League into two parallel circuits—the Central League and the —each comprising eight teams to accommodate the sport's growing popularity. The founding Central League franchises were drawn from the prior league and included the (), (Osaka Tigers; Osaka), (), (), Taiyo Whales (Shizuoka), Nishi-Nippon Pirates (Fukuoka), Kokutetsu Swallows (), and Carp (). This structure marked the birth of (NPB), with the inaugural season featuring a 137-game schedule per team. The captured the first Central League pennant, finishing with a 98–35–4 record, ahead of the (89–44–4) by nine games. A key innovation in the league's early years was the widespread introduction of night games starting in , which significantly broadened accessibility for working-class fans and contributed to the sport's expansion beyond daytime audiences. Korakuen Stadium, home of the Giants, hosted its first night game in July , setting a precedent for other venues and helping to modernize the professional game. Attendance figures reflected this momentum, with the Central League drawing over 700,000 spectators in its debut season despite postwar economic challenges. By the 1960s, as Japan's economy boomed during the high-growth period, fan interest surged, leading to rapid attendance increases—total NPB attendance rose from approximately 5.3 million in 1960 to over 7 million by the mid-decade—fueled by charismatic rivalries and media coverage. The league's mid-century history was defined by the ' unparalleled dominance, particularly during their "V9" era from 1965 to 1973, when they secured nine consecutive Central League pennants and titles, a record unmatched in Japanese baseball. This streak built on earlier successes, including pennants in 1961 and 1963, and was powered by a star-studded lineup featuring slugger , whose distinctive flamingo-leg batting stance propelled him to a world-record 868 career home runs, all with the Giants. Oh's power, combined with the defensive prowess of infielder , symbolized the Giants' blend of offensive firepower and team discipline, captivating national audiences and solidifying the Central League's status as Japan's premier baseball circuit. However, the era was not without turmoil, as the 1969 Black Mist scandal exposed deep-rooted issues of corruption within . The scandal erupted when Nishitetsu Lions pitcher Masayuki Nagayasu was caught accepting bribes from yakuza-linked to fix games, unraveling a web of match-fixing that implicated players across both leagues, including Central League figures. Investigations revealed at least 23 players involved in throwing games between 1969 and 1971, prompting NPB commissioners to impose lifetime bans on six individuals—Nagayasu, Masaaki Ikenaga, , Akio , Kentaro Ogawa, and Toshiaki Moriyasu—to restore public trust. The crisis led to sweeping reforms, such as stricter oversight of player finances and prohibitions, ultimately strengthening the league's governance and preventing further erosion of fan support during a period of otherwise robust growth.

Modern Era and Expansions (1981-Present)

The 1980s marked a shift in the Central League's competitive landscape, as the ' earlier dynasty from the 1960s and 1970s gave way to greater parity among teams. While the Giants secured pennants in 1981, 1983, 1987, and 1989, the emerged as a dominant force, winning league titles in 1980, 1984, and 1986, along with championships in 1980 and 1984. This period highlighted the Carp's rise, fueled by strong pitching and fan support in , contrasting the Giants' intermittent success. The 1990s brought additional challenges, exemplified by the Great Hanshin Earthquake on January 17, 1995, which devastated and surrounding areas, including damage to the ' Koshien Stadium. The disaster, which killed over 6,400 people, disrupted operations and fan attendance for the Tigers, contributing to their ongoing struggles and a last-place finish that season, amid broader recovery efforts in the region. Benefit games were organized by NPB teams to aid victims, underscoring baseball's role in community resilience. In 2007, the Central League adopted the , a postseason to select its representative, following the Pacific League's earlier implementation in 2004. This innovation aimed to boost fan engagement by allowing the top three teams to compete in a stepladder system, with the regular-season winner hosting the final stage. The debut year saw the advance through the series to reach the . The 21st century introduced ownership changes and external disruptions. In late 2011, , a mobile gaming company, acquired a majority stake in the BayStars for approximately 6.5 billion yen, rebranding the team as the for the 2012 season to inject new energy and resources into the struggling franchise. The 2020 season was severely affected by the , shortened to 120 games per team from the standard 143, with play resuming on June 19 without fans and inter-league games canceled. Post-pandemic recovery was evident in 2025, when the Central League achieved record attendance, averaging 34,342 fans per game and contributing to NPB's overall total of over 27 million spectators, the highest in league history. This surge reflected renewed enthusiasm following restrictions. Central League players have also played pivotal roles internationally, with numerous representatives from teams like the and featuring on Japan's 2023 World Baseball Classic-winning roster, including pitchers and position players who helped secure the tournament victory.

Teams

Current Teams

The , established in 1936 as one of Japan's earliest franchises, have built a reputation for resilience and player development through a robust farm system that consistently produces talent for the major roster. The team, based in , secured championships in 1954 and 2007, marking periods of competitive success amid a history of steady contention in the Central League. Their farm affiliates have demonstrated strength, winning the Western League regular season in 2025, underscoring the organization's emphasis on nurturing homegrown players. The trace their origins to 1936 and are renowned for their fervent fan base in the and broader , where supporters are celebrated for their unwavering loyalty and energetic atmosphere at games. The franchise ended a 38-year title drought with victories in 1985 and 2023, triumphs that ignited widespread celebrations among their dedicated followers. This passionate support has defined the Tigers' identity, transforming home games at into electric events that embody regional pride. The , founded in 1949, emerged as a symbol of recovery in the years following the atomic bombing of , with the team initially sustained by local donations and embodying the city's spirit of perseverance. Their golden era in the 1970s and 1980s yielded six Central League pennants and three titles in 1979, 1980, and 1984, a run powered by strong pitching and hometown heroism that deepened ties with residents. These achievements reinforced the Carp's role as a cultural anchor, with annual events like their A-bomb commemoration night game fostering ongoing communal bonds. The originated in 1950 as the Kokutetsu Swallows and have cultivated a distinctive tradition at , where fans perform the "Tokyo Ondo" song with waving umbrellas whenever the scores, creating a vibrant and participatory game-day ritual. The franchise has claimed six championships, including notable recent wins in 1993, 1995, and 2021, highlighting their underdog appeal and exciting brand of baseball in . This storied venue, dating to 1926, enhances the Swallows' identity as a fan-centric with a history of dramatic postseason runs. The , the oldest franchise in Japanese professional baseball since their founding in 1934, hold the record with 22 titles and command the title of "Japan's Team" due to their unparalleled national popularity and massive following, particularly in . Their dominance, including nine straight championships from 1965 to 1973, has made them a cultural phenomenon, drawing fans from across the country to and solidifying their status as the league's marquee club. The evolved from the 1950 Taiyo Whales franchise and underwent a significant corporate in 2012 when acquired by , a mobile gaming company, which infused fresh energy into the team's operations and fan engagement strategies. They have won three titles—in 1960, 1998, and most recently in 2024—showcasing their potential for upset victories despite a history of mid-pack finishes. Based in , the BayStars maintain a loyal local fan base that has grown with the team's modernized image and competitive resurgence. Central League rivalries add intensity to the season, with the Yomiuri Giants-Hanshin Tigers matchup often dubbed a "Japan Series preview" due to its fierce regional and historical animosity between and , dating back to 1936 and drawing massive crowds. Similarly, the Hiroshima Toyo Carp- Yakult Swallows contests carry - tension, fueled by geographic divides and competitive clashes that highlight the league's diverse fan loyalties.

Stadiums and Home Venues

The Central League's six teams play their home games in a diverse array of stadiums across , ranging from historic open-air venues to modern domed facilities, each offering unique architectural and atmospheric elements tailored to enthusiasts. These ballparks have undergone periodic updates to enhance safety, comfort, and spectator experience, particularly in response to seismic standards and evolving fan expectations as of 2025. Capacities vary based on configuration, but all prioritize proximity to the field for immersive viewing. Chunichi Dragons - Vantelin Dome Nagoya
Opened in 1997, Vantelin Dome Nagoya serves as the home of the and features a fixed roof that provides year-round protection from weather, with a capacity of 36,370. The venue includes extensive amenities connected to an adjacent , emphasizing convenience for families and groups, and its dimensions—left and right fields at 100 meters, center at 122 meters—promote a balanced playing field. Recent extensions through 2025 have supported ongoing maintenance, though no major structural renovations were reported in 2023-2025. Hanshin Tigers - Hanshin Koshien Stadium
, a since its 1924 opening, hosts the with an open-air design and a capacity of approximately 47,400, making it one of Japan's largest venues. Iconic ivy-covered outfield walls and a dirt mound tradition—unique to this historic site—evoke early 20th-century American ballparks, while the lack of a exposes to natural elements, intensifying the passionate atmosphere. Dimensions are left and right fields at 95 meters and center at 118 meters. Renovations in recent years, including premium seating upgrades behind home plate completed by 2021, have focused on comfort, with ongoing seismic reinforcements noted for the facility's in 2024. Hiroshima Toyo Carp - Mazda Zoom-Zoom Stadium Hiroshima
Since its 2009 debut as an open-air park, Zoom-Zoom Stadium has been the 's home, boasting a capacity of 33,000 and a fan-centric layout with terraced seating, outfield bleachers, and dedicated zones for community interaction. The asymmetrical design, including natural grass and views of passing trains from upper decks, enhances accessibility and visual appeal, with dimensions of left field at 101 meters, right at 100 meters, and center at 122 meters. Managed by since inception, the stadium emphasizes sustainable features like energy-efficient lighting, though specific 2023-2025 renovations centered on minor clubhouse and stand improvements for player and fan safety. Tokyo Yakult Swallows -
, operational since 1926 and shared with amateur and university teams under ownership, accommodates the with a capacity of 31,805 in a traditional open-air setting surrounded by historic greenery. Its partial roofing allows natural light and ventilation, fostering an intimate urban venue in central , with dimensions of left and right fields at 97.5 meters and center at 120 meters. Known for green-umbrella-waving fans and proximity to cultural sites, the stadium faces a major approved in 2023, involving phased reconstruction starting with adjacent facilities and aiming for completion by 2036 to address seismic vulnerabilities and expand amenities while preserving heritage elements. Yomiuri Giants -
, the ' indoor home since 1988, features an air-supported fabric roof and a capacity of approximately 43,500 within a larger complex including amusement rides and hotels. The fully enclosed design ensures climate-controlled comfort, with dimensions matching standard NPB specs at left and right fields of 100 meters and center at 122 meters, and it doubles as a multi-purpose for concerts. Large-scale renovations from 2023 onward, including new premium seating like the Platinum Box and concourse expansions, reopened in phases through 2024 to improve seismic resilience and fan luxury. Yokohama DeNA BayStars - Yokohama Stadium
Yokohama Stadium, opened in 1978 and renovated extensively in recent years, is the BayStars' waterfront-adjacent home with a capacity of 34,046, located near Yokohama's Chinatown for easy urban access. The open-air venue offers modern amenities like expanded suites and a right-field wing added in prior seasons, with dimensions of left and right fields at 94.2 meters and center at 117.7 meters, promoting hitter-friendly play. A ¥8.5 billion upgrade project transformed concourses and seating for better flow, while 2025 plans include enlarging the scoreboard from 25.4 by 9.9 meters to 88 by 12 meters for enhanced visuals and seismic compliance.

Championships

Pennant Winners

The Central League pennant is awarded annually to the team with the best regular-season , granting the champion the right to represent the league in the or, since 2007, to host the first stage of the playoffs. Since the league's inception in 1950, the have established unparalleled dominance, capturing 39 pennants through 2024, far surpassing any other franchise. This includes dynastic runs in the –1970s, where they won 19 titles, often clinching with star players like and leading the charge. Other teams have experienced breakthrough successes amid the Giants' shadow. The claimed their first pennant in 1975, ending a Giants streak and ushering in a period of greater parity with three titles in the 1970s. The , with seven pennants total, have mounted recent surges, including wins in 2023 and 2025, the latter clinched in record time on September 7, 2025. The and Yakult Swallows follow with 9 and 9 pennants, respectively, highlighting cycles of competition. Tiebreaker games for the pennant have been rare in Central League history, occurring only when teams finish with identical records. A notable instance was the 1994 one-game playoff on October 8 at Nagoya Dome, where the defeated the 6–3 to secure the title, drawing a record television audience and later ranked as Japan's greatest game.
YearPennant Winner
1950Shochiku Robins
1951Yomiuri Giants
1952Yomiuri Giants
1953Yomiuri Giants
1954Chunichi Dragons
1955Yomiuri Giants
1956Yomiuri Giants
1957Yomiuri Giants
1958Yomiuri Giants
1959Yomiuri Giants
1960Taiyo Whales
1961Yomiuri Giants
1962Hanshin Tigers
1963Yomiuri Giants
1964Hanshin Tigers
1965Yomiuri Giants
1966Yomiuri Giants
1967Yomiuri Giants
1968Yomiuri Giants
1969Yomiuri Giants
1970Yomiuri Giants
1971Yomiuri Giants
1972Yomiuri Giants
1973Yomiuri Giants
1974Chunichi Dragons
1975Hiroshima Toyo Carp
1976Yomiuri Giants
1977Yomiuri Giants
1978Yakult Swallows
1979Hiroshima Toyo Carp
1980Hiroshima Toyo Carp
1981Yomiuri Giants
1982Chunichi Dragons
1983Yomiuri Giants
1984Hiroshima Toyo Carp
1985Hanshin Tigers
1986Hiroshima Toyo Carp
1987Yomiuri Giants
1988Chunichi Dragons
1989Yomiuri Giants
1990Yomiuri Giants
1991Hiroshima Toyo Carp
1992Yakult Swallows
1993Yakult Swallows
1994Yomiuri Giants
1995Yakult Swallows
1996Yomiuri Giants
1997Yakult Swallows
1998Yokohama BayStars
1999Chunichi Dragons
2000Yomiuri Giants
2001Yakult Swallows
2002Yomiuri Giants
2003Hanshin Tigers
2004Chunichi Dragons
2005Hanshin Tigers
2006Chunichi Dragons
2007Yomiuri Giants
2008Yomiuri Giants
2009Yomiuri Giants
2010Chunichi Dragons
2011Chunichi Dragons
2012Yomiuri Giants
2013Yomiuri Giants
2014Yomiuri Giants
2015Yakult Swallows
2016Hiroshima Toyo Carp
2017Hiroshima Toyo Carp
2018Hiroshima Toyo Carp
2019Yomiuri Giants
2020Yomiuri Giants
2021Tokyo Yakult Swallows
2022Tokyo Yakult Swallows
2023Hanshin Tigers
2024Yomiuri Giants
2025Hanshin Tigers
The above table lists all Central League pennant winners from 1950 to 2025.

Climax Series and Postseason Play

The , introduced in 2007 for the Central League, serves as the postseason playoff to determine the league's representative for the against the champion. This format was adopted to enhance competitiveness by allowing the top three regular-season teams to vie for the pennant, rather than awarding it solely to the first-place finisher. The structure consists of two stages: the First Stage, a best-of-three series between the second- and third-place teams played entirely at the second-place team's home stadium, with the first team to win two games advancing; and the Final Stage, a maximum of six games between the First Stage winner and the regular-season pennant winner, who receives a one-win advantage at the outset. In the Final Stage, the pennant winner needs three more victories to clinch, while the challenger requires four; games are scheduled with the first two and potential fifth and sixth at the pennant winner's home, and the third and fourth at the challenger's venue. Ties are permitted, and if the series ends in a draw after six games, the pennant winner advances. The has evolved modestly since inception. Initially mirroring the Pacific League's model, the Final Stage operated as a best-of-five in before shifting to the current six-game maximum with the advantage system to balance excitement and scheduling. In 2020, amid the , the Central League canceled the entire due to concerns over shortened schedules, limited dome availability, and health protocols; the regular-season champion, , advanced directly to the . Starting in 2021, the format reverted to standard, though extra-inning rules (beginning from the 11th with a runner on first) apply from the postseason to avoid excessive length. In 2023, NPB refined tiebreaker procedures for seeding, prioritizing head-to-head records and run differentials to resolve regular-season deadlocks among top teams more decisively. These adjustments have contributed to greater parity, with six different Central League teams claiming the title since , diluting the historical dominance of powerhouses like the . The following table lists Central League Climax Series winners since 2007:
YearWinner
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020No series (canceled)
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
The victor earns the right to represent the Central League in the , a best-of-seven championship against the Pacific League's equivalent winner, crowning the overall champion.

Awards and Honors

Most Valuable Pitcher Award

The Most Valuable Pitcher Award in the Central League, known as the Best Pitcher in the Best Nine Awards, is the league's premier honor for pitchers. It has been selected annually since the award's establishment in 1950 alongside NPB's two-league system. This honor is distinct from the overall Award, which is open to all players, and provides focused recognition of mound excellence separate from positional fielding or hitting accolades like the Best Nine for other positions. Voted on by a panel of baseball writers with at least five years of professional experience, the selection process involves one vote per writer for the top performer at each position, with the pitcher category emphasizing key metrics such as wins, (ERA), and strikeouts to recognize overall pitching dominance and contribution to team success. The award has played a pivotal role in highlighting legendary pitchers during NPB's formative years, with early winners setting benchmarks for durability and effectiveness in a high-volume pitching era. For instance, Shigeo Sanada claimed the inaugural 1950 honor with the , leading the league with 39 wins, a 3.05 ERA, and 191 strikeouts over 412 innings, underscoring the award's emphasis on workload and results in the post-war expansion of professional . In the 1950s and 1960s, pitchers like of the Kokutetsu Swallows earned the award three times (1957, 1958, 1963), amassing seasons with 20+ wins and low ERAs that contributed to his NPB-record 400 career victories and eventual induction into the in 1988, where multiple such honors bolster eligibility alongside career statistics. Kaneda's repeated success exemplified the award's value in identifying pitchers who combined statistical leadership with sustained impact, often leading to Hall of Fame consideration after 15 years of service and voter approval. Over the decades, the award has evolved to reflect modern pitching trends, including greater emphasis on strikeouts and efficiency amid rule changes like pitch count limits, while maintaining its status as a key indicator for Hall of Fame eligibility through demonstrated league-leading performance. Notable recipients include Minoru Murayama of the , who won five times in the and with ERAs under 2.50 in multiple seasons, and Kenshin Kawakami of the , who secured the honor in 2006 alongside the overall MVP after a 17-win campaign with a 1.85 . The record for most awards is held by several pitchers with five wins each, including Murayama, highlighting careers of consistent excellence that often translate to Hall of Fame induction. Young talents have also shone, with pitchers like inspiring the category's prestige despite his Pacific League rookie dominance in 1990 (2.91 , 287 strikeouts), paving the way for cross-league recognition of emerging stars. In recent years, the award has crowned pitchers who blend traditional dominance with advanced metrics like and . of the won in 2024 with a league-leading 1.67 and 15 wins over 156 2/3 innings, earning him the overall Central League MVP and reinforcing the award's alignment with Hall of Fame trajectories for high-impact aces. He also earned overall MVP in 2023.

Best Nine Player Awards

The recognizes the top performer at each of the nine field positions in the Central League annually, honoring excellence in both offensive and defensive contributions without a single overall distinction. Established as part of Nippon Professional Baseball's postseason honors following the league's formation, the award has been presented to Central League players since 1950, with winners selected for , , , , , , and three outfielders. Unlike the league's MVP award, which crowns one standout player regardless of position, the Best Nine emphasizes positional specialization and balanced play. The selection process involves votes from baseball writers across Japan, who nominate and rank the premier player at each position based on their season-long performance, including batting average, home runs, RBIs, fielding percentage, and overall impact. This writer-driven voting, conducted without predefined ballots or fan input, ensures a focus on professional evaluation of comprehensive skills rather than popularity. The award remains distinct from defensive honors like the Gold Glove, prioritizing a blend of hitting and fielding prowess. Central League selections have traditionally excluded a designated hitter category, reflecting the league's pitcher-batting rule in regular-season play, though a DH position will be introduced starting in 2027, potentially expanding the award to ten players. Historically, the have dominated the Best Nine selections, reflecting their perennial success and star-laden rosters, with the team earning multiple awards in most seasons since the 1950s. exemplifies this trend, securing the first base honor 18 consecutive times from 1962 to 1979, a record for the position driven by his unparalleled power hitting, including nine Central League home run titles during that span. At third base, holds the mark with 17 wins, all consecutive from 1958 to 1974, bolstered by his six batting titles and five MVP awards that underscored his all-around excellence. These Giants legends highlight the award's role in immortalizing positional icons, with Oh and Nagashima combining for 35 selections amid the team's nine straight championships from 1965 to 1973. Multiple winners underscore longevity and consistency across positions, with outfield records shared among Giants greats like Katsuya Nomura (catcher, 9 times) and Hiroki Kuroda (pitcher, multiple but fewer). International players have increasingly featured in recent decades, adding diversity; such inclusions reflect evolving trends toward global recruitment, though Japanese stars still prevail in voting. In 2024, the Giants captured four positions amid their pennant-winning campaign, with pitcher leading the voting for his 15-win season and 1.67 ERA. Catcher Yudai Yamamoto of the BayStars earned honors for defensive reliability, while , Naoki Yoshikawa, and rounded out the Giants' haul, with outfield selections going to diverse contributors.
YearPitcherCatcher1B2B3BSSOF
2024 (Giants)Yudai Yamamoto (BayStars) (Giants)Naoki Yoshikawa (Giants) (Giants)(Various)(Various)
This table summarizes key 2024 recipients, illustrating recent positional leaders and team representation.

Records and Statistics

All-Time Statistical Leaders

The all-time statistical leaders in the Central League reflect the enduring impact of players who excelled over decades in the circuit, from its establishment in 1950 through the 2025 season. These career totals, accumulated exclusively in Central League games, underscore the league's emphasis on consistency, power, and durability, often dominated by franchises like the and . While single-season feats capture momentary brilliance, these lifetime marks highlight sustained excellence amid evolving competition and rule changes. Batting leaders exemplify the blend of contact hitting and power that has characterized Central League play. Sadaharu Oh tops the hits category with 2,786, all accumulated during his 22-year career with the Giants, establishing a benchmark for offensive dominance that remains unchallenged. also dominates home runs with 868, all hit during his 22-year career with the Giants, establishing a benchmark for offensive dominance that remains unchallenged. Hiromitsu Ochiai holds the career lead at .311, achieved over 20 seasons with teams including the , where his precise hitting and plate discipline shone.
CategoryLeaderTotalTeam(s)Years Active in CL
HitsSadaharu Oh2,7861959–1980
Home RunsSadaharu Oh8681959–1980
Batting AverageHiromitsu Ochiai.311Chunichi Dragons, 1987–1998
Pitching leaders emphasize endurance and control, with many records set in the league's formative postwar era. leads in wins with 400 and strikeouts with 4,491, both records forged during his 20-year tenure primarily with the Kokutetsu Swallows (now ), where he won 20 or more games in 14 straight seasons. The career ERA mark belongs to Hideo Fujimoto at 1.89, reflecting masterful command over a distinguished career with the in the and .
CategoryLeaderTotalTeam(s)Years Active in CL
Wins400Kokutetsu/Tokyo , 1950–1969
ERAHideo Fujimoto1.891942–1958
Strikeouts4,491Kokutetsu/Tokyo , 1950–1969
As of the end of the 2025 season, active players continue to pursue these benchmarks, adding to the league's rich legacy. shortstop , with 2,447 career hits, stands 53 shy of 2,500 and remains a threat to climb higher on the all-time list in the coming years. Yoshihiro Maru, also of the Giants, entered 2025 with 356 home runs and added seven more for 363, positioning him in the chase for 400 while contributing to the team's offensive core.

Notable Single-Season and Career Records

The Central League has witnessed several iconic single-season performances that have defined eras of Japanese . In 1964, of the set a then-record 55 home runs in a 140-game season, a mark that stood as the benchmark for Japanese-born players for nearly six decades and earned him the Central League MVP award. This feat was surpassed in 2022 by of the , who hit 56 home runs while also winning the league's Triple Crown with a .318 and 134 RBIs, showcasing explosive power in a 143-game schedule. On the pitching side, of the Kokutetsu Swallows achieved a league-record 31 wins in 1958, posting a 1.30 over 353 innings in a dominant season that included leading the league in strikeouts (304) and shutouts (9). No-hitters represent another pinnacle of individual excellence in the league, with Central League pitchers contributing significantly to Nippon Professional Baseball's overall tally of 102 such games as of 2025. The most recent came on May 24, 2024, when Shosei Togo of the Yomiuri Giants threw a 7-0 no-hitter against the Hanshin Tigers, striking out six and walking one in a complete-game effort at Tokyo Dome. Perfect games, an even rarer achievement, have occurred at least nine times by Central League pitchers since the first in NPB history on June 28, 1950, when Hideo Fujimoto of the Giants hurled a 1-0 gem against the Nankai Hawks with seven strikeouts. Notable later examples include Hiromi Makihara's 1994 perfect game for the Yomiuri Giants and Yuki Nishi's 2021 effort for the Chunichi Dragons, both underscoring the league's tradition of masterful pitching control. Career milestones in the Central League highlight sustained excellence amid shorter seasons than MLB. Sadaharu Oh's career 868 home runs, all with the Giants from 1959 to 1980, remain the professional baseball world record, surpassing MLB's by over 100 and leading the Central League in homers 13 times. Isao Harimoto's NPB career total of 3,085 hits (only 526 in CL) made him the only player to reach 3,000 hits in Japanese professional baseball, with a .319 average across both leagues from 1959 to 1981. Unique feats further illustrate the league's competitive intensity, such as the ' dynasty from 1965 to 1973, when they captured nine consecutive Central League pennants and titles under manager Tetsuharu Kawakami, powered by Oh and Shigeo Nagashima's combined 1,000+ home runs during that span. In recent years, standout performances include Yoshinobu Yamamoto's 15 s in a 2023 no-decision for the (though , influential across NPB), while Central League arms like Togo's 2024 continue to push single-game dominance. No major single-season records were broken in the 2025 season.

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