Orix Buffaloes outfielder Ryoma Nishikawa (31) got off to a good start in his first real game of 2014 on the 15th. Considering the condition of his left ankle, which he injured in July 2013, Nishikawa is left-handed hitter and has been following a separate training program during the Miyazaki camp. He participated in a live BP and took his first batter's turn at bat since the game against Softbank Hawks on September 20th of the same year (Mizuho PayPay). Nishikawa's self-evaluation was low, saying, "All I focused on was hitting the ball. I'm still not good enough," but he still managed to hit six hit hits in 13 swings.

Manager Kishida commented, "He's in good health, so I'm glad. I think he'll be ready in time (for the opening). Now he's at the stage of getting used to the feel of actual matches." Nishikawa assured himself, "It's not time to rush yet," and vowed to continue improving his condition.