Softbank Hawks 's Kenta Kenta Imamiya, infielder, started at second base in a practice game against Samurai Japan (Sunmarine), handing over his usual position at shortstop to Isami Nomura. He was replaced after two at-bats, with one At Bat hit one Walk. He also performed well at second defense.

The 34-year-old veteran traveled with Yamakawa and Yanagida to The Hawks' training camp, Ikume no Mori Athletic Park, about 20 kilometers away, during the game. He headed straight to the indoor practice field and, saying, "I had something I wanted to do," he silently practiced hitting balls against a machine. Regarding his first time playing second defense in an external game, he said, "I'm glad I was able to get a double double play (on a grounder to third base with one out in the first inning and runners on first and third). My biggest concern is the pivot (the series of movements from receiving throw at second base to throwing it to first base). I have to play in the game and do my best in the game."

He is scheduled to play shortstop in the game against Samurai Japan on the 23rd.