侍ジャパンの井端弘和監督が１６日、３月の第６回ワールド・ベースボール・クラシック（ＷＢＣ）に出場する日本代表メンバー１１人を追加発表した。西武・源田壮亮内野手（３２）は２大会連続の選出となった。
Genda, who boasts an impenetrable shortstop defense, has been selected for the second consecutive tournament. "I want to fully understand the role expected of me and make plays that will lead to the team's win one by one. I will not forget the responsibility of representing Japan, and will fight with all my might for Japan," he said, expressing his determination.
Although he struggled last season with a batting average of .290 in 104 games, he was approached by manager Ibata to be included in the team for the warm-up match against South Korea last fall. He declined, saying, "I want to train again" in preparation for the WBC, and instead participated in Seibu Lions 's fall training. Confident that he could live up to the manager's expectations, he decided to participate.
Despite breaking his right pinky finger in the previous tournament, he continued to play and contributed to the team's victory. Manager Ibata said, "I think defense is the best in Japan. I also expect him to be a tenacious hitter. It's important for short stop including pitcher, to feel at ease when the ball flies to him." He is a key piece in the team's quest for consecutive victories.
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