On the 1st, the Orix Buffaloes officially announced that Tatsuya Shimozono has been appointed as the first-team batting coach. Wearing number 84, he joined the fall camp that began in Kochi today. Reflecting on his time as a batting coach for the Rakuten Eagles until this season, he expressed his enthusiasm, saying, 'My first impression of the Orix Buffaloes from the perspective of an opponent was that they have many good offensive players. I hope to further bring out the characteristics and strengths of the players and continue to develop their advantages.'

This season, young left-handed hitters such as Yamanaka, Watanabe, and Kita have emerged within the team. 'Kita is very important for next year. I am happy to be involved in that. On the other hand, I think there are hitters who are struggling to grow, so I hope to support those players as well. I am full of motivation,' he stated as his declaration of intent.