On the 1st, during the team's Miyakonojo training camp in Miyazaki, Lotte manager Saburo (49) revealed his plan to develop first-round draft pick pitcher Genki Ishigaki (18) of Kendai Takasaki, who was selected as a member of the first team, through a special training program.

Ishigaki Gen, the only high school graduate rookie to take part in the first-team camp, followed the same training regimen as the other players up until catch ball, but he watched the pitcher-catcher coordination and visited bullpen but did not pitch. The manager explained the intention behind the special training regimen, saying, "He's the only high school student, so he'll probably get tired both physically and mentally. We've set up that training regimen to first get him used to it. If I watch him and think, 'He looks tired,' I'll send him back to the hotel."

Gen Ishigaki, who started the day wearing number 18 uniform, said, "It was fun because I was excited all the time. I'm ready to go (to bullpen) at any time, so I want to be fully prepared so that I'll be ready whenever I'm asked to pitch." He is positive about entering bullpen early. The first day of the "Showa-style" camp, which lasted about eight hours including individual practice for fielder, was not only strict but also showed the careful consideration of Manager Saburo. (Ami Shunsuke)