On the 31st, Nippon-Ham manager Tsuyoshi Shinjo (54) announced his policy of placing absolute emphasis on merit ahead of training camp, marking his fifth year in the position. He spoke to reporters after a general meeting at the training camp in Nago, Okinawa. "Until now, I've focused on growth and development for the past four years, but that's no longer acceptable to the fans. Even if a player earns over 100 million yen (annual salary), if he's not in good form, he'll be sent to the second tier. Win at all costs. Just win. I won't hold back anymore." He warned of a hellish training camp in a rare, forceful tone.

This offseason, Arihara, who had the most wins Pacific League with 14 wins last season, has joined the team. The pitcher staff is strong, with Ito also having the most wins, Kitayama with nine wins, and Home Run, and the batting lineup, led by Reyes, who holds the double crown RBI RBIs, boasts the most Home Run in both leagues with 129. "Looking at the 12 teams, I feel like there are some members missing. Things have gone exactly as I wanted," he said, boasting absolute confidence in the new players and the "children" he has built over the past four years.

Although the team aims to have fixed regular players this season, they will be in a final survival mode for one month from the start of the season. "In my mind, I have already decided on the players from 1 to 8. However, I would like them to have one more fierce competition with their rivals." On February 2nd, the second day of camp, there is also scheduled to be an intrasquad game featuring mainly second-string players, and this will be the "final test" to form the strongest nine.

This season's team slogan is "DOMI!", a play on the English word "Dominate," which means to overwhelm. After the sun went down, the team watched the customary fireworks display from the stands of the stadium. "They are by far the best. By far. This is a team that has that kind of power." They are ready to make their grand debut. The Shinjo Ham Fighters are dominating the baseball world as they strive to win their first league championship in 10 years, a culmination of their efforts. (Kawakami Haruki)