Orix Buffaloes pitcher Ryuhei Sotani has formed a "Samurai Battery" with Wakatsuki. The fourth-year left-hander, who was selected for the WBC for the first time in March, threw 100 pitches in bullpen on the first day of the Miyazaki training camp on the 1st. "I get the impression that if I don't focus on the ball, it moves (from the intended course). I want to make it fit my hand better," he said of the feel of the ball used in the tournament.

Partway through the game, Wakatsuki, who also made the national team, took over as catcher. He threw 95 fastballs and 5 slider, and was told with a happy comment, "Some of those were good pitches." He plans to work at a rapid pace, increasing the proportion of breaking ball he throws, until the Samurai Japan training camp begins on the 14th. "I think we'll be getting into real games soon (at the training camp), and I'm also scheduled to pitch in a Red-White game here (Orix Buffaloes). I want to keep my sights set on things and work hard from now on," he nodded.

After the WBC, his fourth season as a professional will begin. "It's difficult, but the reason I've been throwing this many pitches (from the first day) is really for the sake of the season. Once the tournament is over, I'll prepare so I can get straight into the season." He is well aware that it will be a difficult task. He will take on the challenge with conviction and make it his best year yet. (Nambu Shunta)