Elements
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i = 0;
while (!deck.isInOrder()) {
print 'Iteration ' + i;
deck.shuffle();
i++;
}
print 'It took ' + i + ' iterations to sort the deck.';
2023: Team Samurai Japan's Most Powerful WBC Lineup of All-Time... Most Impactful Players
Most Impactful Players: Roki Sasaki
📺 Roki Sasaki World Baseball Classic 2023.
Roki Sasaki's electrifying performance in the 2023 World Baseball Classic cemented his status as a global pitching sensation and rising star. The then-21-year-old showcased an electrifying triple-digit-fastball (+100 mph), complemented by a devastating splitter that buckled the knees of opposing hitters, making him nearly unhittable. His remarkable composure under pressure, particularly in the semi-finals against Mexico's MLB-laden lineup, highlighted his maturity beyond his years and proved his arsenal was more than ready for the sport's highest levels. Sasaki's impactful outings were a crucial component of Team Japan's championship run, firmly establishing him as one of baseball's most exciting young talents.
Most Impactful Players: Shohei Ohtani
📺 WBC Shohei Ohtani vs. Mike Trout
In the iconic climax of the 2023 World Baseball Classic final, Shohei Ohtani delivered a historic performance by striking out his Los Angeles Angels teammate, Mike Trout, to seal Japan's championship victory over the United States. With Japan clinging to a 3-2 lead in the ninth inning, Ohtani, pitching in relief, faced Trout with two outs and the tying run at the plate. After a tense full count, Ohtani unleashed an unhittable slider, inducing a swing-and-miss from Trout that sent Japan into a climatic celebration, creating a storybook ending that epitomized the global star power and competitive spirit of the tournament.
Most Impactful Players: Munetaka Murakami
📺 Murakami Walk-Off in WBC
📺 Murakami Tie-Hit in Finals vs US
Munetaka Murakami's performance in the 2023 World Baseball Classic was a tale of overcoming initial struggles to deliver two of the most clutch hits in the entire tournament, ultimately helping propel Japan to the championship. Despite a slow start at the plate, including a tough semi-final game against Mexico where he was 0-for-4 with three strikeouts, Murakami came through in the biggest moments. He delivered a walk-off, two-run double against Mexico in the bottom of the ninth inning of the semi-finals, sending Japan to the championship. Then, in the final against the United States, he crushed a 115.1 mph, 432-foot solo home run off Merrill Kelly, tying the game and igniting Japan's eventual 3-2 victory. These key hits showcased his immense power and mental fortitude on the global stage, solidifying his impact on Japan's third WBC title.
Most Impactful Players: Masataka Yoshida
📺 Masataka Yoshida Clutch 3-run Homer in 7th
Masataka Yoshida had an absolutely sensational tournament at the plate, shattering the single-WBC RBI record with 13. His ability to consistently get on base and drive in runs, highlighted by his game-tying three-run homer in the semi-final, made him an indispensable offensive weapon.
Most Impactful Players: Yoshinobu Yamamoto
📺 Yoshinobu Yamamoto WBC Highlights
Yoshinobu Yamamoto consistently delivered strong performances throughout the tournament. He's widely considered the best pitcher of all-time in the NPB, and his command, diverse arsenal, and ability to limit runs were vital for Team Samurai Japan's undefeated run. His starts were consistently effective, setting the tone for the pitching staff.
The Tokyo Dome has served as a central and iconic venue for the World Baseball Classic since its inception, hosting pool play in every single edition of the tournament (2006, 2009, 2013, 2017, 2023, and scheduled for 2026). Affectionately known as "The Big Egg" due to its distinctive air-supported roof, this indoor stadium with a capacity of around 45,600 for baseball is the home of Japan's Yomiuri Giants and is renowned for its passionate and energetic crowds. Its consistent presence highlights electric performances, as it did during the 2023 championship run.
Iconic Players of Yomiuri Giants:
Hideki "Godzilla" Matsui (1993–2002)
Sadahara Oh (1959–1980 & manager 1984-1988)
Text
This is bold
i = 0;
while (!deck.isInOrder()) {
print 'Iteration ' + i;
deck.shuffle();
i++;
}
print 'It took ' + i + ' iterations to sort the deck.';