Lotte's Yuto Kimura will start in the game against Orix Buffaloes on the 7th.

Kimura commented through the team, "As it's the start of the series, I want to bring good momentum to the team. I can't make the same mistakes as last time I pitched, so I'll get myself together and try to pitch my best. I want to make the necessary adjustments and pitch in good condition."

In his first appearance of the season on March 31 against Nippon-Ham Fighters, Kimura pitched 6 innings, throwing 103 pitches and giving up 7 runs, pitcher in lose. He will be mound this season, aiming for his first win.