Orix Buffaloes pitcher Sho Iwasaki (36) declared on the 14th a "super-fast finish" for next season, his 20th year as a professional. In his second season since transferring from Chunichi via trade, his return to the first team was delayed until June due to poor lower-body conditioning, and he finished with 2 holds and a 6.97 ERA in 23 games. "My performance wasn't good, and the biggest factor (for the slump) was getting off to a late start in early spring. I want to prepare well so I can make up for it next year," he vowed for a comeback.

After the end of last season, he started moving his body in November, but this off-season he restarted on the 13th. Reflecting on the past, he said, '(A year ago) there were parts where I felt a bit rushed. Looking back now, there were areas that were lacking and things I regretted,' and he spent the day working up a sweat with aerobic exercise and other activities. He plans to resume catch in the coming days and intends to handle heavy weights in weight training earlier than in typical years. He outlined his plan, saying, 'I want to build a solid foundation first. I want to be in good condition for the February camp.'

At his former team Chunichi, Kimiyasu Kudo, who coached him during his time with the Softbank Hawks, has been unofficially appointed as the new manager. 'I believe Mr. Kudo is the one who made me a professional, so I am grateful. I can imagine Chunichi becoming stronger and stronger. I'm just glad they aren't in the same Pacific League (laughs),' he said, reminiscing about the fall camp where he trained for over five hours in the indoor practice facility. 'Even if I don't go quite that far, I want to throw a lot,' he stated, aiming for a full-throttle performance like in 2017, when he contributed to a championship by appearing in 72 games. With unwavering determination, he prepares for his 37th season. (Shunta Nambu)