Texas Rangers and Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth Celebrate Friendship Night with Visiting Japanese Students and Toyota at Globe Life Field

Arlington, TX — August 26, 2025 — Globe Life Field was alive with celebration on Monday night as the Texas Rangers and the Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth (JASDFW) hosted the annual Japan-America Friendship Night, presented in partnership with Toyota Motor North America. Click for Photos & Video

The evening highlighted the enduring ties between Japan and North Texas through baseball, culture, and community exchange. A delegation of 16 Japanese middle school students joined Toyota Motor North America CEO Ted Ogawa on the field prior to first pitch, serving as cultural ambassadors and symbolizing the deepening friendship between the two nations.

The students enjoyed an unforgettable all-American baseball experience—attending pre-game events, receiving official Rangers gear, and cheering alongside JASDFW Board of Directors, local members and fans as the Rangers faced the Los Angeles Angels.

Adding to the night’s excitement, Toyota Motor North America’s CEO Tetsuo (Ted) Ogawa, President and Chief Executive Officer, took the mound to throw the ceremonial first pitch, underscoring Toyota’s long-standing support for U.S.–Japan relations and its presence in North Texas.

“Friendship Night is more than just a ballgame—it’s a celebration of cultural connection,” said Lawrence P. Howorth, Chair of the JASDFW Board of Directors. “Seeing the students experience one of America’s sports while sharing their culture with our community truly represents the spirit of international friendship.”

This annual celebration continues to showcase the importance of people-to-people connections, reinforcing shared values of teamwork, friendship, and community between North Texas and Japan.

For more information about the Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth and future events, visit jasdfw.org.