Lotte's Naoya Masuda is starting to prepare for next season.

Looking back on this season, Masuda said, "This was the first time that things didn't go so well." He vowed to bounce back, saying, "I feel sorry for the team, but I think all baseball players have had this kind of experience. Some players experience it when they're young, and some when they're older. It's a path that all superstars go through. I think this is the point where I'll see if I can end it here, or if I can try again and achieve good results. I'll think of it as a good experience, and I'll start from scratch and work hard again so I can achieve good results."

He participated in the fall practice held at Zozo Marine Stadium in October, as well as the Miyakonojo fall camp. "I've been constantly moving through December and barely had a rest, so I think that's the biggest change for me," he said.

During this off-season, he is also using weight training equipment for the first time. "I'm at the stage where I'm trying things I've never done before. I don't know if this will increase my power output or what will happen, but I think that if it doesn't work, I have to change something. I think this is the right time this year, and since some of my muscle strength has weakened, I'm just giving it a try."

He has two more saves to reach 250. "I think I'm starting from scratch, so I'm still working hard to make the opening day first team, play 50 games, be a member of the Hall of Fame, and leave a mark that will show people that Masuda is back, so I'll do my best and leave a mark," he said enthusiastically.