◆Exhibition game: Nippon-Ham vs. Yakult (22nd, ES CON FIELD)

Nippon-Ham 's pitcher Kohei Arihara made the start. He pitched four innings, allowing only one hit and no runs, while strike out. He nodded and said, "I was able to throw the pitches I wanted to throw, and I think I was able to pitch in a good way to start the season off in good form."

In the first inning, he rallied Nagaoka and Santana with consecutive struck out and kept the Yakult batters at bay, mixing his fastest 148 km/h straight line with a variety breaking ball of pitches. He allowed hit only one infield hit run and did not allow a double.

When asked what he liked about his performance, Arihara said, "breaking ball were good, but I was also able to throw my fastball well at crucial moments. I think I did a good job of getting ahead in the count, and I was able to throw my fork to good spots, so I hope I can consistently do that throughout the season." Regarding his theme for the day, he said, "Rather than trying to experiment, I was just focused on getting solid results, so I'm glad I was able to pitch the way I had envisioned."

Up until now, Arihara had pitched in two exhibition games, giving up seven runs in a total of eight innings, suggesting he was still in the adjustment phase. However, in his final exhibition game appearance, his performance improved, proving he was in top condition. He said, "I have a good rhythm, and I want to start the season with a good pitching performance. I was conscious of this final exhibition game appearance." This appearance has raised expectations for his scheduled start on March 31 against Lotte at the home opener (Escon).