Nippon Ham pitcher Hiromi Ito, who participated in the WBC as a member of Samurai Nippon-Ham, rejoined the team on the 17th. He was warmly welcomed with applause from players, staff, and other related personnel.

Responding to the warm reactions from the players, Ito calmly said, "I felt relieved, and it made me feel really good, which allowed me to practice." At the entrance to the Escon staff area, there was a sign that read, "Thank you for your hard work at the WBC!" along with the names of the players and staff who participated representing Japan, Taiwan, and Cuba. "I saw it. I was a little moved. I was happy," he said gratefully.

Manager Shinjo sent him a direct message immediately after the game. "Knowing that he's watching me makes me really happy and gives me a sense of relief, and it has made me even more determined to do my best for the team." When he returned to Japan on the 16th, acting GM Kida and other team executives and staff members greeted him at the airport. "I was reminded once again how fortunate I am to be a part of The Fighters team," he said.