Nippon-Ham manager Tsuyoshi Shinjo (54) announced on the 2nd that he will invite former Chunichi Dragons players Masahiro Yamamoto and Takeshi Yamazaki as temporary coaches for the spring training camp. "February 10th, 11th, and 12th, Yamamoto will be there on the 11th and 12th. He was very happy. I think I'll get him to come on a private jet from Nagoya," he said, revealing the surprise invitation for the third training camp.

Mr. Yamamoto's aim in inviting him was to say, "Masashi Yamamoto, who is in his 30s, 40s, and 50s, is the same in all of them. I am amazed that he is able to pitch remain the same. Miyanishi, Kato (Takashi), and Yamazaki, who are now over 30 years old, left pitcher and were able to do it until they were 50, it is impossible without some technique, baseball and a brain. I want them to learn how to use in-course, or the technique of not doing first baseman runner to second baseman. Also, how to use screws. I'd like to hear about dexterity. I like left pitcher is left pitcher pitching coach," said the 219-win left fielder, who remained active until age 50, touching on his one and only idea.

Regarding Yamazaki, he said, "I played for The Tigers' second team and thought he was an incredible batter. At the time, the Chunichi Dragons had a lot of long-distance hitters, but he was on a different level than them and took home run title. What's special about me is that when I went to Rakuten Eagles, home run increased dramatically. From around 35 or 36 years old, I think he was close to 40. He has a knack for hitting long runs. Also, in terms of pitching, if the first pitch is slider, he's a player who can wait for slider. We have a lot of batters who can hit the ball long, so I'd be happy if he could teach me those things." This will be a great opportunity to learn from legends who have been Home Run kings in both leagues, mainly right-handed hitter such as Mannami, Mizutani, and Gunji.