On the 12th, outfielder Shota Hiranuma (28), who will be transferred from Seibu Lions to Orix Buffaloes in the active player draft, set a goal of reaching the required number of at-bats for the first time. This season, Hirooka, who was also born in 1997, cleared the target for the first time in his 10th year as a professional. "I think the ideal would be to reach the required number of at-bats while playing various positions," he said, imagining his success in his new environment.

His highest number of at-bats was 184 in 2019 when he was with Nippon-Ham. The active player draft was held on the 9th, but he has changed his mind, saying, "Not at all. This is my second transfer." He is registered outfield, but can also play infield defense except at shortstop. "Of course I want to become a regular player. I want to make sure I achieve the best results of my career," he said, showing his determination.

On this day, he participated in a talk show in Tsuruga City as an alumnus of Tsuruga Kehi, which celebrated its 40th anniversary. His senior, Nishikawa, also promised to "help" him, saying, "He's a little shy, so I hope I can act as a mediator and help him quickly integrate into the team." His desire to "bloom at Orix Buffaloes" is genuine. It's time for this versatile player to break out of his shell. (Osada Toru)