Taro Baden (59), president of Orix Buffaloes Buffaloes, also vowed to "give back" to Kobe. At the team's facility in Maishima, Osaka, he observed a moment of silence with about 30 team members, including manager Kishida. He revealed that he lost a junior from his days as a member of the Konan University tennis club during the earthquake disaster while working at the Matsuyama branch of Orix Buffaloes Buffaloes. "His face kept popping into my mind," he said, his eyes red.

Watching Game 5 of the Japan Series against The Giants on October 24, 1996 (at Green Stadium Kobe) and witnessing the moment of victory is an unforgettable memory. He assumed the position of new president on January 1st and renewed his resolve, saying, "We were able to win the championship thanks to the strength we received from the fans in Kobe. I want to continue to build a strong team so that I can repay that kindness."