It became increasingly likely on the 23rd that Orix Buffaloes pitcher Naruki Teranishi (23) will be on bullpen duty for the opening game against Rakuten Eagles on the 27th (Kyocera Dome). Drafted in the second round in 2024, he recorded two wins in his rookie season last year. The 155 km/h right-hander, who is expected to make a big leap as a part of the starting rotation, is likely to take over from opening pitcher Miyagi.

In the open game on the 20th, which was the "pre-opening game", the Hanshin Tigers (same), from the 3rd inning to the 3rd inning, 5 innings 2 runs, 5 strike out. He has completed a "rehearsal" with 83 pitches of long relief, and when he has a chance to pitch in six days, he shows confidence, saying, "It's not difficult to do, just do my own pitch." In the warm-up match against the WBC Japan national team on the 2nd (same), Ohtani, Suzuki, and Yoshida's major groups were blocked and pitch completely twice. Drawing on his experience on the big stage, he imagined a good pitch, saying, "If I were to throw, I would like to give everything I have."

Last season, the team won their opening game with walk-off victory and reached 10 wins faster than any other team in either league. "The atmosphere changes depending on whether we win or not. I want to contribute to winning in any way I can," he said emphatically. (Shunta Nanbu)