On the 3rd, Nippon-Ham pitcher Koki Kitayama (26) revealed his strong desire to take part in the WBC to be held in March this year. "I think that players from the major leagues will be returning for the WBC, so I expect that I will be able to perform better than I already am. If I am selected, I will be excited to see my new self and do my best for my country." On December 26th of last year, eight members of the preliminary team, including Ohtani (Dodgers) and Kikuchi (Angels), were announced. He expressed his desire to join the strongest team in history, aiming for consecutive championships.

In the Premier 24 held in November 12, as a member of Ibata Japan, he started and pitched in 4 games with full rotation regardless of reliever. He also joined the national team in the warm-up match (against South Korea) in November last year and is expected to be included in the WBC squad. "I was able to appeal that I can go anywhere, such as a closer or a long inning in the premier," said the right-hander, who also experienced closer in his first year as a professional, and is ready to swing his arms regardless of position. "I was personally very frustrated that I finished second (in the Premier 12), so I want to repay that debt." He carries the Japanese flag on his back again and takes revenge.