On the 9th, a rest day for the Miyakonojo camp, Lotte's outfielder Daito Yamamoto (23) set his goal for this season as "30 home runs." He is currently learning from the former Seibu Lions manager, temporary coach Kazuo Matsui (50), on both offense and defense. He will show the results of his training this season.

Although he is registered outfielder, he is currently training in third base defense in order to make use of his batting skills and increase his playing time. "With Kazuo-san helping me, I've been able to practice intensively from morning until about 6pm. I'm keenly aware of how difficult it is," he said.

Last year, he hit 11 Home Run the most for a Japanese player on the team. When asked about his ideal third baseman, he said, "I imagine someone like (Murakami) Munetaka or (Okamoto) Kazuma, who hits clean up, playing defense. Someone who can lead the team and has a certain flair, would suit him." His popularity is also on the rise. "Coach Nishioka has told me, jokingly, to dye my hair blonder and come to the opening game with cornrows. I tell him, 'I'll do that after I've performed well,'" he said with a laugh.

On this day, he appeared at a Pacific League TV shoot wearing a medium-sized black hoodie with the letter "Pa" written on it. "It's too small! My belly button is about to show," he said, drawing laughter, but the silhouette of his well-trained physique was also clearly visible.

"Since I'm being given this freedom, I have to perform to a certain extent. I want to perform well this year and get in the groove. I want to aim for 30 home runs," said Yamamoto. The 23-year-old is nicknamed "Dynamite." There's a feeling that a big explosion is on the way. (Kato Hiroshi)