◆Pre-season game Nippon-Ham 5-2 Hanshin Tigers (23rd, Nago)

Nippon-Ham manager Tsuyoshi Shinjo praised starting pitcher Kota Tatsu, who pitched well, allowing only one hit and no runs in four innings and striking out six strike out.

When asked about the players, the manager said, "When he stands on mound, he looks like he's wearing number 11. He's that amazing. But I don't really worry about it. It's better to watch him with peace of mind. I'd like him to give up a few hits, maybe even three runs." He used number worn by Darvish and Ohtani as an example to show the extent of his confidence in them.

Ito and Kitayama are away from the team due to the WBC. When asked about Tatsuya's intention to lead the team, he said, "It's too soon, you should just think about yourself. What year is it? Third year? Fourth year? Fifth year! Well, let's think about it (laughs). Oh, it's been five years. It feels like we just said hello at the draft the other day, but it's so soon."