On the 13th, Orix Buffaloes catcher Yuma Tongu (29) declared that he would "produce a lot of outstanding hits" for next season. He held his usual off-season joint practice with Softbank Hawks 's Yamakawa in Fukuoka Prefecture until the 12th, and it seems he is fulfilled in mind, technique, and body. On the same day, he participated in a baseball clinic in Hyogo Prefecture, mainly run by alumni of the Asia University baseball team, and revealed his determination to be a key player.

"What is necessary for the team? I think it's the ability to win and hit." This season, he cleared the required number of at-bats for the first time in two years, with a batting average of .249. Although he sometimes tried to bunt, he decided to take the traditional route, saying, "There is something more important for the team than that."

Along with his colleague Mori, Yamakawa is someone he respects. "It's brutal, but I can endure it. It's all about the will," he said during the three-day joint training, which was a "limit-breaking" type of grueling session, where he completed 10 exercises while carrying plate weighing 25 kg. They spent time together in the same space from 9 am until dinner, and once again, his master taught him the importance of "preparation." Follow the path you believe in. (Osada Toru)