On the 23rd, Seibu Lions Lions manager Fumiya Nishiguchi (53) revealed that if pitcher Mitsunari Takahashi (28), who is aiming to transfer to the majors through posting, stays with Seibu Lions, he is considering including him as a candidate for next season's opening pitcher.

Last offseason, he announced his big role at the fan appreciation event in November, but this offseason, he said, "I haven't decided on anyone yet." He plans to make a final decision during spring training, saying, "I'll think about it during training camp." If Takahashi stays with the team, he said with a grin, "Of course I'm a candidate."

Taira, who is the top candidate for the left ace Sumida and next season's starting lineup, has the possibility of being selected as a member of Samurai Japan for the WBC to be held in March next year, and "I am not thinking about the opening (pitcher) if I am selected for the WBC." In the current force, left-hander Takeuchi, who won the Rookie of the Year in 24 years in the first year, Watanabe, right-hander in the 7th year, Yoza, Submarine right-hander, and technical new foreign right-hander Winance are also candidates.

What in the world is standing at mound in the first inning of the opening game on March 27 against Lotte (ZOZO)? (Ayami Ohnaka)