On the 2nd, Lotte manager Saburo commented on the competition for the starting catcher position this season.

"The person I want the most is Sato. I think it would be better for wall if he could stay injury-free and play all year round," he said, expressing hope for a comeback from Sato, who last season was affected by injuries and other factors, resulting in a batting average of .270, four Home Run, and 18 RBI in 68 games.

He continued, "However, Teraji's batting ability, and also the experience he gained last year, will determine how much he has changed this year as catcher. I will have to assess that a bit, but basically, I want Sato to do his best, and I also want Teraji to do his best. I think Matsukawa and Tamura also have a chance. However, I think they need to be able to hit, not just be better at defense than those two, and I'm not sure if that's a high hurdle, but everyone has a chance." With Sato as the base line for the starting catcher, it looks like there will be a fierce battle between Teraji, Matsukawa, Tamura and others who were regulars last season.

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