"I've always focused on playing short stop, so I have a strong desire to play there, and if I can defend that position again, I'll always want to compete there."

Lotte's Yudai Fujioka has announced that he will be trying out for short stop position next season.

Fujioka played as a short stop shortstop from his professional debut until 2023, but was converted to second baseman in 2024. This season, he played in 102 games, batting .256 Home Run and 25 RBI.

Fujioka said, "I don't know where I'll be playing yet, but I want to prepare myself by the time camp starts so I can go anywhere," but when asked by the press about his attachment to short stop, he said, "I think the player who can defend most consistently should play there, and the second baseman/shortstop position requires you to keep an eye on your surroundings, and there are a lot of signs.It's a position you have to play responsibly.I feel it's rewarding."

He also decided to stay with the team this offseason without exercising his domestic free agency rights. "I wanted to win here, and I feel I need to carry that with me from next year onwards," he said, tightening his resolve.

Next January, "I will continue to train with Kondo as before. We are still training together over here, so I think we will be in better shape than last year." As usual, he will train with Kensuke Kondo (Softbank Hawks) and others. I will try to shine once more at short stop, which will be my second challenge.