◆ Pacific League: Softbank Hawks vs. Lotte = Rainout after 2 innings = (26th, Kagoshima)

Softbank Hawks Hawks' game against the Lotte Marines, held in Kagoshima as part of their "Fight! Kyushu Day" event, was called off due to rain. After the game, manager Hiroki Kokubo announced that infielder Itua Ikhine would be removed from the active roster. Although he made the opening day roster mainly as a pinch runner and defense substitute, he has only appeared in eight games so far, with only two at-bats. The manager explained the intention behind sending him down to the minor leagues, saying, "We want him to have more at-bats."

The 2022 first-round draft pick has decided to seriously try playing in outfield this season with the aim of increasing his playing opportunities. He originally joined the team as short stop. Takashi Onishi, outfield defense base base running, and strategy coach who has been watching his attempt to play outfield, analyzed the current situation, saying, "I think it will take a little more time for him to become a true defense player."

outfielder, in particular, need the ability to judge the direction of batted balls, both forward, backward, left, and right. Experience in actual games is more important than practice. "You just can't get better without catching the ball in games. In that regard, I want them to play in games in the minor leagues and gain enough trust that people will say, 'If the ball goes there, it's definitely an out,'" said Coach Onishi. Like the manager, he believes that gaining experience in the minor leagues is necessary, but his words also conveyed the high expectations he has for them.

During this spring training camp, Ihine's reputation steadily rose due to his ambitious attitude and high level of athleticism. During games, he focused on bench work and play as if he were on ground himself. He dedicated more time to practice than anyone else, and he has also identified areas for improvement. Coach Onishi said, "I've talked to him many times about why he couldn't catch the balls he missed during practice. I think he understands that now," indicating that he sees his growth.

Coach Onishi says, "She's come a certain way." "From here on, I want her to develop her own sense of how to chase the ball in matches. It won't stay like this forever. True ability isn't something that comes easily from this point on," he added, his words stern but coming from his belief in Ihine's potential.

Although he didn't get many opportunities to play, the experience of being in the first team was invaluable. He's sure to come back a lot stronger.