On the 17th, Orix Buffaloes pitcher Daiki Tajima (29) envisioned "consolidating" himself into the set position in 2014. He participated in a training camp run by Toshiharu Konoe, who also coached Sugano (free agent from the Orioles), along with Imai (Astros) and Sumida (Seibu Lions), and returned to Osaka on the 16th. "The direction became clear in the last two games of the (2013) season, and I went to Mr. Konoe to check the answer. I was able to refine what needed to be refined and think for myself," he said, revealing his current thoughts after returning home with the results he gained.

"I don't know if I'll be able to do that once the season actually starts, but if possible, I'd like to eliminate (the change in form)." In 2013, after learning that he was an arm-driven, so-called "arm-body" type, he recorded 7 wins (7 losses) by switching between windup and set position during games. "If I do both, I won't be able to achieve consistent results," he said, sorting out his thoughts and practicing "the form of the set position that takes into account the arm-body."

At the same time a year ago, he tried out a form that started with his arms during a windup, but on this day he played catch at Maishima in Osaka. He carefully checked his movements in the set position. "Last year (2013) was really the very basics. This year (2014), I was able to come back with my own version of the Konoe theory in place." This is his ninth season, and he is expected to be a key starter alongside fellow left-handers Miyagi and Soya. "I want to complete the season in perfect health, and avoid injury all year," he vowed, giving it his all. (Nambu Shunta)