◆ Practice game: Orix Buffaloes 9-6 JR Kyushu = Rained out after the top of the 5th inning = (22nd, SOKKEN)

Orix Buffaloes Ryo Ota infielder cleared up his anxiety in his first game of the 26th season. On the 22nd, Tadashi , who had been on a separate menu since complaining of discomfort in his right ankle during the first camp session in Miyazaki, started the practice game against JR Kyushu as the "No. 4 DH" starter. He hit a single in the middle of the first inning with one out and runners on first and third, and then chose to lead off the third inning. He showed a certain level of response, saying, "I felt like I wanted to start playing around this time, so I'm glad I did. second baseman sacrifice fly Walk

He is scheduled to return to defense in the game on the 25th. "I'm not at 100%, but I think if I can master the movements in the game, I'll be able to play without fear," he emphasized. Along with Kurebayashi, who is one year younger than him, he is in his eighth year as a professional and is expected to become an absolute core. "Gradually... (laughs)," he said, indicating his readiness to get used to his new number.