◆ Saito: "The only way to do this is to catch in bullpen and practice properly."

Seibu Lions 's first-round draft pick, Taiga Kojima, started as the sixth batter and catcher in the game against Orix Buffaloes on the 1st. In the 6th inning, with no outs and a runner on first base, and again with one out and the bases loaded, he lost possession of a ball thrown by Kosei Kona Takahashi. In the 8th inning, with one out and a runner on first base, he lost possession of a ball thrown by Yamato Fuji. Three lost possessions in a single game tied the worst record in professional baseball history.

On the Fuji TV ONE program "Pro baseball News 2026" aired on the 1st, MC Yutaka Takagi said, "It was a bit harsh on the rookie. But he's a pro, so he has to catch it," to which commentator Shohei Tateyama pointed out, "As the situation changes rapidly, the pitches they have will change as well, and they have to take in all sorts of data, such as which direction hitter is aiming, and face each opponent every day. I think it's tough, but they have to grow step by step while taking in the characteristics of various pitcher. Today, a lot of their weaknesses were exposed."

Another commentator, Akio Saito, analyzed the situation, saying, "I think he threw the mitt backwards because he felt that fork drops vertically, while a sinker doesn't drop." He encouraged the batter, saying, "He just has to practice catching in bullpen. He should think of this as a good learning experience."

☆ Cooperation: Fuji TV ONE "Professional baseball News 2026"