Orix Buffaloes Sota Kawano infielder met for contract renewal negotiations at the players' dormitory in Konohana-ku, Osaka, on March 3 and signed for ¥2.6 million, an increase of ¥100,000 from this season's salary of ¥2.5 million (estimated amount). He said, "I have a great chance to play second base, so I was told to do my best again next year. I will do my best next year to make a dash for the starting lineup.
left-handed hitter joined the team as the fifth pick in the 2023 development draft. In his second season this year, he recorded a batting average of .245 with 16 RBI in 54 games in the Western League. This offseason he plans to train independently in Okinawa, Oita, and his hometown of Fukuoka. "I'm going to review my training and strengthen my sprints. I think that will also help with my batting, defense range, and ability to hit the ball farther," he said, making the most of his time.
Currently, the first-team regulars are Ota and Kurebayashi, both right-handed hitter. Looking ahead to his third year, he said, "I think there are a lot of players in the first team who are good at hitting long balls, so if I can connect those walk, bunting, and advancing bases, I think I can become a useful player. I want to be a fastball player and a controlled player."
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