Orix Buffaloes Yuki Udagawa pitcher (27) made his return to the game on March 12 after a 545-day absence. He took part in a live BP (live batting practice) session on Maishima, Osaka, and hit a total of 20 pitches with a maximum speed of 148 km/h. He took a big step toward a full recovery after undergoing Tommy John surgery on his right elbow on March 11, 2013.

"I was happy to be able to throw hitter against my opponent, and I'm glad I came steadily." It was a full-fledged pitch since the Softbank Hawks match (Kyocera D) on September 13, 24. His average ball speed was stable at 147 km/h, and he also took a swing with a treasured sword fork. "If I can throw in the game and increase my speed to another 5 or 6 km," he said, "If all goes well, he plans to head to an external game in March." Udagawa's voice and expression were bright.

In the 2011 WBC, he pitched in two games as a relief pitcher, contributing to Samurai Japan regaining their world championship. He has now risen from being a development player, but his feelings for the Japanese flag remain unchanged. "Even cheering on the team on TV makes me nervous, but it inspires me a lot. I want them to become world champions again, and I myself want to come back in better form than I was three years ago." In his prime, he was unrivaled in thrilling situations. A bright future is in sight. (Osada Toru)