On February 1st, the Saitama Seibu Lions' 2026 season officially began. At the spring training camp site, Nango Central Park in Nichinan City, Miyazaki Prefecture, a welcome ceremony was held ground before the warm-up began. During the camp, it was possible to go down onto ground to watch the practice, and many fans were there watching from the very first day.
During the subsequent base running practice, new recruit Masayuki Kuwahara was seen smiling. His season as a member of the Saitama Seibu Lions is finally about to begin.
Draft pick number one rookie catcher Taiga Kojima showcased his power hitting from the very first day, hitting home runs and demonstrating his strength during batting practice. He also caught pitches pitcher Chihiro Sumida in bullpen, making for a fulfilling day both offensively and defensively.
Newly acquired pitcher Rei Takahashi, who joined the team as a developmental player, went to bullpen with Kaito Yoza pitcher Yoza Kaito, who is the same age as him. They seemed to be carefully checking pitch motion, focusing on how they use their lower body.
