Samurai Japan's manager Hirokazu Ibata, who will participate in the 6th World Baseball Classic (WBC) to be held in March next year, announced the participating lineup in advance in Tokyo on the 26th, and Seibu Lions Kaima Taira pitcher was selected. number was decided to be "61".

In 2023, he declined to participate in the WBC, prioritizing his preparation as a starting pitcher. The powerful pitcher, who will be joining the team aiming for a second consecutive world championship this time, commented, "I am deeply honored to have been selected for the WBC Japan national team. With the responsibility and pride of representing Japan in my heart, I want to put everything I have into every single pitch. I will do my best to contribute to Japan's win."

This season, he appeared in 54 games, recording 4 wins, 2 losses, 31 saves, and 8 hold, with ERA of 1.71. After competing with Softbank Hawks 's Sugiyama, he won his first career save title.

The members announced in advance this time are as follows:

▽ pitcher

1. Yuki Matsui (Padres)

14. Hiromi Ito (Nippon-Ham)

15. The Giants

16. Ohtani (Dodgers)

17 Yusei Kikuchi (Angels)

26. Atsuki Taneichi (Lotte)

61. Kaima Taira (Seibu Lions)

69. Daichi Ishii (Hanshin Tigers)

* number before name