On the 22nd, Orix held a meeting in Tokyo the day before the draft. Regarding the first pick, GM Fukura explained, "We will decide again at the meeting on the day. We haven't narrowed it down (in terms of position). We might have some players who can contribute immediately. (3 or 4 candidates?) That's about it." As with last year, the team plans not to make the selection public.
If there is competition with other teams, it will be manager Mamoru Kishida who will draw the lots for the second year in a row. Last year, he narrowly missed out on the negotiation rights for Nishikawa of Aoyama Gakuin University, and he said, "I'm not confident though (laughs). Last year, I remember taking a walk in the morning as a form of exercise and praying (at the shrine). Let's not go this year," he said, clasping his right hand.
Related News
・ [Yakult] GM Junichi Ogawa lists 12 candidates for first pick at scouting meeting, "We need to be prepared for some competition" - final decision to be made on the 22nd
・ [Orix] 1st pick candidates "3 or 4 people" to be decided on draft day... If there is competition, new manager Kishida Mamoru will draw the lots "I've only seen him on TV"
・ [Orix] Team president Michio Minato praises manager Mamoru Kishida's performance in his first year in the position, saying, "He's doing a great job."
・ [Orix] Manager Mamoru Kishida to continue in his position next season... The team announces the signing of a contract
・ [Orix] Manager Mamoru Kishida's first Red vs. White game will also be held on February 8th. He will be the first to attend the 12-team manager's meeting, one hour before the start.
