Masayuki Kakefu, chairman of Hanshin Tigers Tigers alumni association and Sports Hochi commentator, appeared on MBS TV's "Yonchan TV" (Monday-Friday, 3:40 PM) on the 9th. He commented on the Japanese national team's performance, which advanced to the quarterfinals after finishing first in Pool C of the World Baseball Classic. He praised Shohei Ohtani's concentration in the first game against Taiwan, which led to him hitting doble on the first pitch immediately after the ball was in play. Regarding his second-inning bases loaded, he praised Ohtani's "excellent use of his right foot," saying that the toes of his right foot didn't curl up as he stepped forward, transferring power to the ball.

As for the key points for the upcoming game, he pointed out that Kensuke Kondo who has struggled with no At Bat and one hit in 12 at Walk in three games, is recovering. "I want Kondo to be in starting line-up for the game against the Czech Republic (on the 10th), shake off his frustrations, and fly to America. I think this experience will help him grow a lot. I definitely want him in starting line-up for the game against the Czech Republic," he said.

Regarding Sato Teruaki, who hit a timely doble as a pinch hitter with one out and runners on first and third in the eighth inning against Australia, he said, "I'm relieved that he got the result. He had the courage to swing at the first pitch. I feel very relieved and think he can go to America calmly."