Orix Buffaloes On March 23, Keita Nakagawa infielder visited Peace Wanko Japan Ikoma Transfer center fielder, a dog shelter and transfer facility in Ikoma City, Nara Prefecture. The team started donating 10,000 yen for every 1 hit of the dogs they have helped this season. This season, they donated 1.23 million yen for every 1.23 million hit they received. The visit was very rewarding: "I was glad I did it because they are all good kids.

Nakagawa is a dog lover who has two pugs at his parents' house, and two at home: a Maltipoo (a mix of a Maltese and a toy poodle). "Whether it's a day game or a night game, I take them for walks and play with their toys at home," he said, expressing how much his dogs have a big influence on him.

After touring the facility that day, the group interacted with the rescue dogs while giving them treats. "I think most people have an image of them as biting and scary, but that's not the case at all. They can be wary, but I found there to be a lot of sensitive, gentle, and cute dogs." Project leader Abe Makoto expressed his gratitude for Nakagawa's efforts, saying, "Having someone as influential as Nakagawa tackle the issues of rescue dogs and euthanasia can help raise awareness."

With each hit, a life is saved. "I hope that by doing this, I can help save lives," he said, and he plans to continue contributing with his bat next season.