The Hanshin Tigers are close to winning their first Central League pennant in 18 years, Asahi Shimbun reported. Fans are avoiding talk of the title so they do not jinx the team, the report said.
Baseball is one of Japan's most-followed sports, and a Tigers title would trigger celebrations across the Kansai region that many fans and local businesses join.
Watch the Tigers' remaining Central League games to see when they clinch the pennant.