Hiroshima Carp slump leads to scoring woes, possible player exodus and dwindling stadium crowds

The Hiroshima Toyo Carp are struggling with a severe lack of offense, scoring only 190 runs in 66 games – the lowest total in the league – and averaging fewer than three runs per game. Key hitters such as Fabiano and Monteiro have underperformed, and the team has been unable to establish a consistent clean‑up lineup. Several pitchers, including ace Hiromu Tokuta, Shogo Sakakura and reliever Sota Shimanai, are set to become domestic free agents this off‑season, raising concerns that the club may lose multiple core players.

Attendance at the team’s Mazda Zoom‑Zoom Stadium has also declined sharply. The recent Hiroshima‑Giants game drew about 24,000 fans, leaving noticeable empty sections, especially in the right‑hand stands. Former Giants manager and commentator Horiuchi Tsuneo expressed worry about the empty seats and noted that manager Arai appeared less animated, underscoring broader doubts about the club’s on‑field performance and fan engagement.