Lotte pitcher Kazuya Ojima (29) practiced at the ZOZO Marine Stadium's indoor training facility on the 4th, in preparation for his starting appearance against Softbank Hawks on the 5th (at ZOZO Marine Stadium).

In his first start and appearance of the season on March 29 against Seibu Lions, he threw 59 pitches over 4 innings, giving up 3 hit, 4 Hit by Pitch, and 1 runs, suffering his first loss of the season.

Last season, he started six games against Softbank Hawks, compiling a record of two wins and one loss ERA of 3.38. "I know they're strong, and starting line-up is full of good hitter. I'm always thinking about how I can pitch in a way that allows me to stand up to them. I hope I can show that on mound," he said, showing his strong determination to take on their powerful lineup.