Left-hander Tatsuki Koja for Rakuten 's second game of the season against Orix on the 29th (Kyocera Dome).
Manager Miki made the announcement during practice on the 25th. He was informed on the 24th after Howard, who was considered a likely starter, avoided pitching in the exhibition game on the 22nd due to a stiff back. Kosha joined the first-team practice on the 25th and confidently stated, "I was told to be ready to move up at any time if I get sent down to the farm team. This chance doesn't come around often, so I want to make the most of it."
This season, he was on a separate training menu due to a stiff back early in camp. He started late, but said, "I was training all the time with the intention of pitching in the opening rotation." The opening pitcher will be Hayakawa, who said, "I think he'll play a good game, so I want to keep that momentum going and carry it into the third game. If I'm going to pitch, I want to pitch for Howard."
With this, the opening three-game series will feature three left-handed pitchers: Hayakawa, Kosha, and Karashima. Manager Miki expressed his expectations, saying, "I want them to do their best and challenge themselves in a new way for the 25th year. First of all, I want them to focus on pitch well on mound."
Related News
・ [Rakuten] Praying for victory at Rakuten Mobile Park- Manager Miki: "I feel on edge as the season begins"
・ "The best thing was that I was able to play without any physical worries," says Rakuten first-round draft pick Rui Rui Muneyama, who has been confirmed for the opening day first team! Manager Miki says, "I feel there is still room for improvement."
・ [Rakuten] DH Daichi Suzuki hits a tying run in the fourth inning, showing his competitive spirit with six RBI, the most on the team.
・ [Rakuten] After recovering from a stiff back, Tatsumi hits doble and is ready to start the season.
・ [Rakuten] Toshiki Abe bats fourth and hits the opening run against his former team, drawing applause from Chunichi fans: "I'm happy"
