Voice actress Ikumi Hasegawa has been announced as the latest addition to the voice cast of the upcoming TV anime The Catcher in the Ballpark!, set to premiere in Japan in 2025. Hasegawa will voice the character Aona, joining a growing list of notable cast members.
Hasegawa’s character, Aona, will interact with a lead cast that already includes Fairouz Ai as Ruriko and Satoshi Inomata as Murata. The anime, based on the popular manga series by Tatsuro Suga, has generated excitement with its unique blend of humor and romance.
The series is being directed by Junichi Kitamura, known for his work on Fluffy Paradise, with Shigeru Murakoshi (I Parry Everything) serving as the series’ screenwriter. Fumio Ida, co-character designer for Yadamon and Basquash!, will handle character design, while the music will be composed by MONACA, who previously worked on Protocol: Rain. Animation production will be handled by EMT Squared.
First serialized in Kodansha’s Morning magazine on September 3, 2020, The Catcher in the Ballpark! has already released 15 volumes as of November 2024. The manga’s growing popularity has contributed to the anticipation surrounding its anime adaptation.
The Catcher in the Ballpark! follows the story of Murata, an office worker who frequently visits a ballpark beer vendor named Ruriko, who bears the distinctive appearance of a gyaru. Despite being Murata’s first regular customer, Ruriko initially remains aloof. However, her true, innocent personality is revealed whenever he is not around.
Fans of the original manga and newcomers alike are eagerly awaiting the anime’s debut, which promises to blend heartfelt moments with lighthearted comedy. The show’s premiere date is set for 2025, with further details expected in the coming months.
For more updates, fans can follow official announcements from the production team and stay tuned for additional cast and crew reveals.
Related Topics
- “Everyday HOST CLUB” Manga to Receive Short Anime Adaptation in April 2025
- Warner Bros. Fast-Tracks ‘Lord of the Rings’ Anime to Secure Film Rights
- “Ave Mujica: The Die is Cast” Anime Reveals Creditless Opening Video Featuring Symphonic Metal Track