Softbank Hawks infielder Taisei Makihara joined the team on the 6th. He warmed up with a separate menu, then practiced defense and batting practice at lunchtime. During the batting practice, he hit five home runs in about 85 swings, and commented, "I was able to do what I needed to do, and I'm ready to enter this camp," suggesting that his preparations are going smoothly.

He was also selected for the 2023 WBC, meaning he will represent Japan for the second consecutive tournament. However, last time, he participated as a replacement player after Suzuki of the Chicago Cubs was injured. This time, he has been on the team from the start, and he commented, "I have to play with even more tension and awareness."

He currently has a three-year contract with the team with a variable salary, and this season will be his final year. He will also be taking on last season's Pacific League batting hitter. When it came to being selected as a member of the WBC team, it took him about three days to decide to participate. "If anything, I felt more strongly about this season. But I think this is probably the last WBC of baseball career. After all, I thought it might be better for me to go to the WBC when I thought about baseball career." After much deliberation, he came to his decision.

In this tournament, he will likely be required to take on multiple roles, from starting as a batter to pinch-hitting, pinch-running, and defense substitutions in the infield and outfield. I plan to ensure I get enough practice time by talking with fielder coach Nobuhiro Matsuda. A versatile samurai is indispensable for achieving consecutive world championships. I've made up my mind.