◆Pre-season game Nippon-Ham and Seibu Lions (4th, ESCON)

Nippon-Ham pitcher Kota Tatsu started and pitched five innings, allowing five hit and no runs. Even though he pitched no runs, he had runner on base every inning, and reflected, "I didn't give up any runs, but considering the content, I don't think it was very good."

When asked about his challenges after pitching, he said with a wry smile, "I can't really say much, but there's a lot I can't say." He also reflected on the theme of the day, saying, "I was told not to say much, so it's hard to say (laughs). But today, it wasn't about closer batters, it was a challenge I set for myself, so I think I was able to do that well."

He also had zero strike out that day. He said, "I think the fact that I didn't struck out out is an issue that people see from the outside." Regarding his next game and beyond, he said, "One thing is my fastball, that's my biggest issue. I need to be able to throw a fastball well. And I'd like to aim for struck out next time."