◆Pre-season game Orix Buffaloes 2-0 Hiroshima (4th, Kyocera Dome Osaka)

Orix Buffaloes Shumpeita Yamashita pitcher (23) threw a fastball at a good tempo. He started the team's first game of the open game and went 5 innings, 3 hit, runs, 2 strike out. In the first inning with 2 outs, 2nd and 3rd base, Akiyama was slashed with a fastball struck out to the air, and he confirmed the global variety with a fastball with a maximum speed of 155 km/h, saying, "Overall, it was well organized, and it was good that (the new ball) was thrown within left-handed hitter cutter."

During the Miyazaki camp in February, he repeatedly practiced a form that would not put strain on his lower back, which had been a problem until 2013. Although he is still in the process of development, he has pitched a total of 9 2/3 innings without runs a run in three games so far, and his adjustments are going well. He said he felt that "little by little, my form is coming into my own." However, at the same time, he said, "There are still areas where my output is lacking. I would like to gradually improve it without overdoing it," and did not give himself a passing grade.

With Miyagi and Soya participating in the WBC, the 161 km/h right-hander is a candidate for opening pitcher alongside Kuri. Manager Kishida emphasized that it is still undecided, saying, "I'll tell you about that later. It'll be fine, so don't worry (laughs)." Yamashita said, "I'll really give it my all and prepare so that I can be selected at any time." He is conscious of this big role, his second since 2011, and is working to perfect his stature. (Nambu Shunta)