Open game: Nippon-Ham 1-7 Hiroshima (22nd, Nago)

Nippon-Ham manager Tsuyoshi Shinjo (54) praised fifth-round draft pick rookie catcher Kaito Fujimori (18) from Meitoku Gijuku High School on the 22nd for getting his first professional hit.

The 18-year-old, who entered the game as a substitute runner in the 3rd inning and hit a infield hit double off Hiroshima left fielder Tsuji in his second at-bat of the 8th inning, said, "That's good. It's a big deal when you hit that after you've been pushed into a corner," he said, impressed with his ability to adapt from count a 2-2 deficit. He started camp with the second team, but is now temporarily joining the first team at the request of his commanding officer. I love the fact that the location of the free-batting point hardly changes at all. Everyone is in a different position, but I thought it was great that he was hitting from that position, whether on the fly or as a ground ball, and it made me want to watch him (up close)," he explained.

During his time at Meitoku Gijuku, he played as outfielder for the Japan High School National Team and boasts an outstanding baseball sense. "I can't let him play anything other than catcher yet. He doesn't play with the first team, but he's already had input. We'll help him grow as catcher. And if he can't catcher, he's the kind of player that makes me want to broaden his horizons by showing him other positions. He has good bat control. Apparently his speed is about the same as Mizutani's," the manager said, making it clear to the coach that he was impressed.

He also stated that in addition to Fujimori, Asama and developmental draft pick #1 Tsuneya will participate in the exhibition game against Hanshin Tigers on the 23rd (in Nago).