[Seibu Lions] Rookie joint voluntary training begins. Draft pick #1, Taiga Kojima: "I want 2025 to be known as the best draft year."

Sports Hochi

Seibu's first Seibu Lions draft pick, Taiga Kojima (center, number 10), and other new recruits sweat it out during a running drill (Photo by Miyoko Tonsho)

Seibu Lions 's rookie joint voluntary training began on the 10th at Carminique in Tokorozawa City, Saitama Prefecture.

In the morning, the players warmed up, played catch, and practiced batting practice, then split into pitcher and fielder for practice.

The first day of practice was packed with many fans as it was an open day for the public. At the end of the morning practice session, the No. 1 draft pick, Taiga Kojima catcher =Meiji University, who played tee time outdoors, pledged in front of the gathered fans, "We will all do our best so that the 2025 draft will be called the best draft ever," to which he received warm applause.

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Pacific League News

[Seibu Lions] Rookie joint voluntary training begins. Draft pick #1, Taiga Kojima: "I want 2025 to be known as the best draft year."