Orix Buffaloes' new second-team manager Yoshihisa Hirano (42) started his duties on the 1st in Maishima, Osaka. Parallel to the first-team's autumn camp that began in Kochi, both pitchers and fielders went through their routines starting at 10:00 AM. In the afternoon, he gathered the remaining members on the ground and expressed his expectations for a competitive display of their skills.

"The competition for next year has already begun. I want everyone to have their own goals and work with high energy." Having retired from active play at the end of this season, his title has changed from player-pitcher coach to second-team manager. As he takes on this important position supporting Manager Kishida in his third year, he noted, "I think the realization will start to sink in from now on," and clarified his style by adding, "I believe strictness is also necessary."

The farm team staff has also seen a change in faces. Scout Satoshi Komatsu (45) has been appointed as the second-team pitcher coach, and team public relations officer Taisuke Kondo (35) has also taken a position as a developmental coach. Masahiro Nishino infielder (36), who retired from active play alongside them, also moved around busily from the first day as the second-team batting coach.

Former team member Kazuki Kondo (43) is also expected to join as a pitcher coach. 'I must do my absolute best to fulfill the role I have been entrusted with. I want to grow together with the players,' he promised. A legend who recorded a total of 258 saves in Japan and the United States, he became the first Orix Buffaloes player to enter the Golden Players Club. Through high-quality work, he will realize the strengthening of the team's overall power. (Toru Osada)