Nippon-Ham pitcher Koki Kitayama (27) won his first titles in his fifth year. He received double awards for most wins, tied with Orix Buffaloes' Espinoza at 13 wins, and for the highest winning percentage at .813 with 3 lose, stating 'Winning a title was one of my goals. I am happy to have achieved this result, and I feel growth in being able to create a margin of 10 wins. Looking at the season as a whole, it was good that I could firmly build up that margin. On top of that, I am happy to have won the most wins title, and this encourages me to aim even higher.'

Despite the magnificent results, Kitayama repeatedly expressed 'gratitude' for the support of those around him. 'I am conscious of the fact that I have been looked after and raised over these past five years. I want to express my gratitude once again for being able to achieve this within that process. In a game, first there is a catcher who builds the game, then there is the relief from the relievers, support from the fielders, and backup from the defense. I want to thank everyone first.' He bowed his head and humbly accepted the two titles, saying, 'If anything, these titles include many parts that are not just my own ability. I want to be grateful without becoming overconfident.'