It was revealed on the 21st that the Orix Buffaloes are considering selecting BC Ibaraki pitcher Kim Han-gun (22) — 178 cm, 85 kg, left-handed pitcher and batter — as a 'breakout candidate.' The left-hander, who commands a 150 km/h fastball, a slider, and a change-up, is evaluated as a starting pitcher type. The team plans to discuss the details, including his position in the draft standings, leading up to the draft day on the 22nd.

Kim, a Tokyo native, joined Ibaraki last year after attending Tokai University Urayasu High School and Tokai University (which he left mid-course). He won 9 games this season, and his high strike out ability is also attractive, having recorded 100 struck out in 97 2/3 innings. As a member of the Japan Regional Professional baseball League (JRPB) selection, he is also participating in the Phoenix League currently held in Miyazaki. Scouts have also been checking his pitch.

On the team, aces such as Miyagi and Yamashita are sidelined for a long period due to surgery. In particular, the starter position has become a point for reinforcement, and there seems to be a possibility for Kim, who has been steadily building up his strength.