◆Exhibition game: Hiroshima vs. Softbank Hawks (22nd, Mazda Stadium)

Softbank Hawks 's Stewart runs in 2 1/3 innings as a starter in the final game of the preseason, but showed confidence in his condition. The right-hander, who won 9 games in 2024, did not pitch last season due to a left abdominal muscle injury. In his eighth year in Japan, he is expected to be a key player in the starting rotation, which is currently vacant by Arihara. "I've prepared my body properly. My game sense is back. The more I throw strike, the brighter my future looks," he said.

For the three-game series against Hiroshima starting on the 20th (at Mizuho PayPay Stadium and Mazda Stadium), opening day starters Uwasawa, Haru Matsumoto, and Stewart will be the starting pitcher. It is highly likely that these three will be the starting pitchers for the three-game opening series against Nippon-Ham starting on the 27th (at Mizuho PayPay Stadium).