On the 19th, Softbank Hawks held a practice session at Mizuho PayPay Dome, outfielder Kensuke Kondo and pitcher Yuki Matsumoto, who participated in the WBC as members of Samurai Japan, joined the team.

Kondo, who participated in the tournament for the second consecutive year, was expected to be a key player, but surprisingly went hitless in 13 At Bat. "I was away for about a month, but I was able to see the high level of baseball in various countries, and I think it was an honor to be able to play baseball in the tense atmosphere of representing my country. I'm disappointed that I couldn't meet expectations in terms of numbers. After the tournament, I was able to see what I need to work on, and I think it was a tournament that made me realize that I have a lot of room to grow," he reflected.

They aimed to win the championship again in 2023, but were defeated by eventual champions Venezuela in the quarterfinals. "I think there was a sense of anticipation from those around us as the defending champions. I'm sorry that we couldn't live up to those expectations. I think all the players felt the difference in strength. Players who play in the majors are amazing in terms of strength, physical strength, and physique. I think NPB players need to be much more ambitious," he said, acknowledging the challenges ahead.

Immediately after the defeat, numerous slanderous comments were posted on social media targeting the Samurai Japan players and their management. He himself became the new chairman of the Japan Professional baseball Players Association at the end of last year. "This is something I am working on as the chairman of the players' association. The players themselves worked very hard, and this is the result. Of course, if the results are not good, it is natural that such things will be said. We must consider what kind of words they are and think about it. I think we need to speak out," he said, expressing his complex feelings.