"Pacific League FANS MEETUP 2026" is now available on the official Pacific League TV YouTube channel.

From Orix Buffaloes Shumpeita Yamashita pitcher, Naruki Teranishi pitcher, Yusuke Mugitani player, Ryoto Kita Four players born in 2002 made an appearance. In the "The Buffaloes Player Profile" segment, Mugitani was selected for two different themes.

First up was "the player with the strongest mentality." pitcher Teranishi was the first to mention Mugitani, praising him highly, saying, "This guy is seriously amazing. He's not nervous at all when it comes baseball." Kida praised Mugitani's mental strength, saying, "You can't stolen base without courage, can you?" referring to the 12 stolen base successfully stole in his first year as a pro, the most on the team.

When asked about the "player who is the team's mood-maker," everyone agreed on Mugitani. He's described as a "mood maker" and "just like the Mugi that fans know," and is known for his bright personality within the team. On the other hand, Mugitani admitted that he does get down sometimes. Kida, whose locker is nearby, revealed what he's like at that time.

Mugitani showered praise on his contemporaries, Rui Muneyama and Misho Nishikawa

Last year, Pacific League saw a surge in first-round draft picks from universities, including Mugitani. In the "Praise Talk!" segment, where players from other Pacific League teams are discussed, Mugitani showered praise on players of his generation.

First up is Tohoku Rakuten Eagles 's Rui Rui Muneyama. He teases him, saying, "I think he's a little too cool," but then adds, "He also has a clingy side, so he's cute," hinting at their close relationship. As for Chiba Lotte Marines 's Misho Nishikawa he declares, "He's incredible! That guy is incredible!" He praises the high level of batting talent of Nishikawa, last year's Rookie of the Year.

The video also features four other players attempting to draw caricatures of their teammates! The drawings are so accurate to their features that pitcher Teranishi jokingly asks, "Isn't this going a bit too far?", guaranteeing hilarious moments!

The "Pacific League FANS MEETUP 2026" Orix Buffaloes edition was a friendly and relaxed event, centered around player Mugitani. We hope you enjoy seeing the casual side of the four players who are expected to perform well in the 2026 season.

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We'll be giving away autographed shikishi (decorative paper boards) signed by all 19 participating athletes to a total of 57 lucky winners!
Please see the application form (https://forms.gle/st88mo6SxDqptUKN8) for details.
*Application period: March 23, 2026 (Mon) 21:00 to April 3, 2026 (Fri) 12:00