On the 21st, Nippon-Ham announced that infielder Kotaro Kiyomiya (26) underwent an examination at a hospital in Nago City, Okinawa, and was diagnosed with arthritis in his right elbow. He is expected to return to the game in about three weeks. With just over a month until the start of the season, his opening game appearance is now in doubt.

On this day, Yuki Kiyomiya appeared at the stadium with the other players and emphasized that he was "completely fine," but he did not participate in the team practice and was adjusting his training menu separately. If the player's association president were to withdraw, it would be a major blow.

After the practice match on the 19th, manager Shinjo said some harsh words, "We'll leave the injured players behind. There's no need to even talk about it. There are plenty of injured players left," but he also expressed hope for a speedy recovery, saying, "I do hope they come back soon."