On the 3rd, Softbank Hawks outfielder Tomoya Masaki (27) of Samurai Japan participated in the Samurai training camp held in Miyazaki, emphasizing his awareness as the oldest fielder and the number one hitter.

Masaki had a breakout season this year as the number 1 hitter, hitting 28 Home Run. Manager Iguchi stated his intention to use him in the number 1 spot, saying, 'Since Masaki bats number 1 for The Hawks, he will be my number 1. He can be a threat and put pressure on the opponent.' Masaki expressed his enthusiasm, saying, 'I believe they evaluated my performance as the number 1 for The Hawks highly, and I want to do my best to show my strengths in the same way to meet those expectations.'

This time, he was selected as an overage player. He showed his determination, stating, 'As the oldest fielder, I want to be able to lead the team in that regard, and I also want to be a player who can lead the batting lineup.'