Lotte's seventh draft pick, pitcher Yamato (23) from Honda Suzuka, participated in the rookie joint training session at Lotte Urawa on the 22nd, throwing 21 pitches in bullpen. Aiming to become part of the team's win formula, the rookie, who is an immediate asset from a professional league, said enthusiastically, "I'm confident in my fastball, so I hope they'll evaluate that first."

The 161 km/h right-hander, who has been selected to start the first-team camp, is a big fan of barley shochu, saying, "I can drink a whole bottle." However, he said, "I'd hate it if I drank alcohol and felt a bit unwell. If I think about how it might affect me the next day, I want to avoid that (hangover) as much as possible," and intends to avoid drinking even a drop as a matter of risk management and moderation.

On the other hand, he lifts his alcohol ban during the off-season, and when he goes out drinking with friends and relatives, "I like alcohol, so I drink quite a lot." If they win the league, even during the season, he can drink to his heart's content, as he has the noble cause of "pouring beer." "If we win, I think it's okay to drink as much as I want, so I want to contribute to that first." He hones his skills, dreaming of the day when he can taste the "finest finest sake."