Kaima Taira pitcher (26) of Seibu Lions, who will start on the 5th against Rakuten Eagles (Belluna Dome), was interviewed after practice on the 4th.

In his first appearance of the season on March 29 against Lotte (at ZOZO Marine Stadium), he pitched shutout game win shutout, saying, "I'm not as tired as I thought I would be. I think it was good that I threw a lot of pitches during the offseason." He threw 119 pitches, but fatigue didn't seem to be a problem. When asked about his impression of Rakuten Eagles batting lineup, he said, "I don't watch many games, so I don't pay attention to impressions. I'll look at the data and pitch accordingly," indicating that he plans to use data to his advantage in his strategy.

The team had suffered three straight losses up to the 3rd, and he expressed his determination to start the season with a win, saying, "If the starting pitcher can pitch long inning without giving up runs, I think we'll have a chance. I want to do my job well."