Softbank Hawks 's third-round draft pick, pitcher Gota Suzuki (22) from Osaka University of Commerce, moved into the "Wakataka Dormitory" in Chikugo City, Fukuoka Prefecture on the 5th. He brought with him a "winning daruma" from Katsuoji Temple (Minoh City, Osaka Prefecture), which is famous for prayers for victory, and which J1 soccer team Gamba Osaka has visited in the past. "I used to go there every year with my university team, but this year I went personally. This is the first time I've bought a daruma," he said, seeking good fortune in winning.

He didn't break his routine either. Suzuki said, "For the four years I was in Osaka, I would go to Katsuoji Temple on January 4th, so I went on the 4th this year as well before moving into the dorms." He has been on mound at national tournaments since his first year at Osaka University of Commerce, and as the ace, he has achieved a record seven consecutive championships in the Kansai Six University League. The sidearm right-hander, who throws at a maximum speed of 147 km/h and aims to emulate Oosuke of The Giants, will take on the challenge like a rookie, saying, "I'll just keep going without changing anything."

On the winning Daruma doll, he will write, "I will complete the year without injury," and first plan to fill in one of its eyes. He plans to achieve his goal of winning Rookie of the Year and then "open his eyes" during the offseason. (Moriguchi Noboru)