Rakuten Eagles Manager Hajime Miki announced on April 10 that the team's first game of the year, a practice game against Nippon-Ham Nago on April 11, will feature the third overall draft pick Akira Shigenaga infielder (Chūōdai) and seventh overall draft pick Shōya Hankami outfielder (Kinki University), who have been participating in the first-team camp.

"Even though it's just a practice game, it's only natural that we want to see them in high spirits. The game is a test, so I want them to try out what they've been doing and working on in practice," said the manager, who has high hopes for the efforts of the young players. Regarding the two rookies, he promised them a debut in a real game, saying, "If nothing else happens, I hope they can step up to the plate once or twice. The coaches are interested to see how Shigenaga hits in a game. Sakagami also swings well, and the coaches want to see him in a game." The starting pitcher is scheduled to be third-year left-hander Tatsuki Koja, who is a candidate for the opening mound.