Seibu Lions Manager Fumiya Nishiguchi (53) announced on April 4 that he would start with the second and third camps in Haruno, Kochi. "I think he will start with the B team," said Nishiguchi, who announced his retirement at the end of this season Takumi Kuriyama outfielder (42).

Even though he is the face of the team and has supported the team for many years, he will not be given special treatment. This is his second year in charge and the team is hoping to make a comeback from last season's fifth place finish. The veteran will only be promoted to the first team once it is determined that he is "necessary as a fighting force," just like other players. The manager explained his intentions, saying, "Of course. Otherwise, (Kuriyama) wouldn't want to play. If I think he can be a help, I will promote him, and I think he will aim for that. If Kuriyama is really good, then of course I will use him."

Furthermore, Takeshi Nakamura, who joined the team at the same time as Kuriyama, and Sumitani, who will be entering his 21st season this year, will also be assigned to the Kochi-Haruno camp, just like last year, and their training will be left to their own devices. Sumitani has been told early on to "do your best," and the team plans to have him participate in the competition for the starting catcher, saying, "We want him to compete well with the younger players." (Ayami Onaka)