On the 22nd, Softbank Hawks infielder Kenta Imamiya (34) was inspired by the help of his ally. Former DeNA player Yuto Mori (34), who retired from active duty at the end of 2015, also participated in the open voluntary training session held in Miyawaka City, Fukuoka. With support from the knocker and batting pitcher, Imamiya renewed his resolve.

"I'm no longer a regular player." In 2025, he suffered from repeated injuries, including to his left calf, and played only 46 games, the first time in five years that he fell below 100 games. In his quest for a comeback, Mori, who was his teammate for 10 years from 2014, played a key role. Along with pitching pitcher for about 70 minutes, Mori gave him passionate encouragement, saying, "I want you to keep trying for as long as possible. You can do it."

Imamiya = Shortstop. In his 17th professional season, he aims to become the first player in NPB history to play in the opening game for 14 consecutive years as short stop. "I feel like I want to give it my all and go as far as I can," he said. His experience and stability are not to be outdone by the rise of players like Nomura. He will still be a formidable opponent. (Tosei Moriguchi)