Seibu Lions Manaya Nishikawa outfielder appeared for the third consecutive year at an event to enjoy a trip on the "52-Seat Bliss" restaurant train operated by Railroad with fans on March 17. The train ride lasted about two hours, and "seeing the smiling faces of the fans really cheered me up," he said. Seibu Lions
After participating in the event twice in the off-seasons of 2011 and 2012, his performance improved the following season, and he himself is aware of the auspicious event, saying, "I think there's something good about the 52 seats of bliss." Although he was sidelined by injury this season, he established himself as the leadoff hitter midway through the season and played in 124 games, recording career-highs of 134 hit, 25 stolen base, and a batting average of .264.
When asked about his goals for next season, in reference to "trains," the leadoff hitter smiled and declared with a "express declaration" that he would like to "stolen base 30 bases." Last year, he said, "Next year, we'll aim for a 10:1 ratio (of applicants)," but with around 1,000 applicants for 104 spots, this target was successfully achieved. "(Next year) we'll aim for a 100 million:1 ratio. I also want to focus on playing the full inning, and I want to get the most hit," he said, reflecting on his thoughts.
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・ [Seibu Lions] Manaya Nishikawa will play the full inning next season. He has been the leadoff hitter this season, but has been sidelined due to discomfort in his right shoulder.
・ [Seibu Lions] Manaya Nishikawa signs for 57 million yen, an increase of 35 million yen. "I'm really happy. It makes me want to work hard next year."
・ [Seibu Lions] Yua Shinkawa appears at the ceremonial pitch for the second year in a row. "No matter what, my desire to send out the blue flames will never change."
・ [Seibu Lions] Mitsunari Takahashi, the starting pitcher number 13, will play against Rakuten Eagles on the 4th, and will end manager Nishiguchi's first year in charge with a win.
