Orix Buffaloes pitcher Shumpeita Yamashita (24) revealed his 'repayment plan.' The right-hander, who underwent medial collateral ligament reconstruction surgery on his right elbow in May and had no appearances this season in his sixth professional year, renewed his contract on the 9th in Maishima, Osaka, with an estimated salary of 23 million yen, a decrease of 7 million yen. 'I expressed my gratitude to the team for allowing me to have the surgery. I want to do my best for the fans, my family, and the trainers who supported me,' he said, envisioning his path to a complete comeback.

After the surgery, he devoted himself silently to rehabilitation, including a routine of squeezing crumpled newspaper to strengthen his grip, and resumed throwing with a training ball in October. 'Everything is progressing well without any trouble,' he said. He plans to hold a hardball in two weeks. His ideal plan is to aim for a return to actual games next May and gradually proceed with pitch practice starting in February. He also maintains his composure, stating, 'Rushing is what affects you most later on. I want to take it one day at a time and carefully listen to my body.'

Since 2023, when he won nine games and was crowned Rookie of the Year, his annual salary has decreased for three consecutive years. 'Trials are a natural part of the journey toward something. I have high expectations for myself,' he said, looking straight ahead. He envisions himself dominating once again with his 161 km/h fastballs and sharp-breaking curves. Shunpeita possesses the strength to turn adversity into growth. (Shunta Nambu)