Fifth-year left-handed pitcher Shinya Sugai will make his first appearance of the season on the 2nd against Orix Buffaloes (at Belluna Dome).

This spring, he completed the first team's training camp in Nango, Miyazaki, but was demoted to the second team midway through the open season. Nevertheless, he said, "I was doing it with the intention of making an impression," and he made two appearances in the farm team's regular season, posting an ERA of 2.70 and earning the last spot in the opening day rotation. He expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "Since I've been given this chance, I'd like to pitch well."