◆Exhibition game Chunichi 6-2 Lotte (22nd, Vantelin Dome)

Lotte lost to Chunichi in their final preseason game, finishing in last place with a record of 4 wins, 11 losses, and 2 ties.

Starting pitcher Kazuya Ojima (29) was the lose pitcher 8 hit 6 runs in 4 innings. Manager Saburo (49), who revealed on the 21st that Kojima is scheduled to start in the third game of the season against Seibu on the 29th (at ZOZO Seibu Lions Stadium), said after the game, "There's no way to evaluate him. But today is the last day he can make a mistake. I'll have him pitch again next time (on the 29th), and I want to see how he makes adjustments. I'm the one who's most worried. He's been the ace for many years, so I'm hoping he'll change completely." He said he would not change the scheduled start, but expressed his mixed feelings.

His first preseason as manager of the first team ended in last place. "I'm nothing but anxious, but there's no point in dwelling on it. I just have to accept it and do my best. It's a young team, so I think if they can gain momentum, the results will change dramatically. We'll do our best to help them get on that momentum," he said, turning his attention to the opening game against Seibu on the 27th (at ZOZO Seibu Lions Stadium).