Softbank Hawks 's Ozeki showed steady progress ahead of the opening game. He started against Yakult (Mizuho PayPay) and pitched four innings, allowing three hit and two runs (one earned) while strike out. This was his first appearance on the mound in an external game this season, and he showed great confidence.

Last season, he achieved his first title with the highest winning percentage, with a record of 13 wins and 5 losses. He was particularly unbeatable at home, with a record of 9 wins and 0 losses and ERA of 1.30. Seeking further improvement, he has been working on a windup pitching style since this season.

Although he gave up the opening pitcher to Uesawa, manager Kokubo has had great confidence in him throughout the training camp, saying, "No matter what his condition (is), he's in the rotation." He continues to train with the awareness that he will be the core of the starting rotation, saying, "I intend to have my sharpness, control, and pitching speed all in order by the time the season starts."