Orix Buffaloes Buffaloes outfielder Yutaro Sugimoto (35) expressed his eagerness to return to the first team in May on the 30th. He started the season in the minor leagues due to chronic pain in both knees and has been carefully progressing through rehabilitation. He reported with a bright expression that he is "getting much better" and has recovered to the point where he is considering returning to actual games in mid-May.

Up until now, he has been checking his condition with light jogging and batting practice. "I hope to be able to play in a game in about two weeks," he said, indicating that his progress is going smoothly. Looking ahead to the long season, Raoh's presence, with his potential for long hits, is invaluable. "I want to come back in good form so that I can look back and think that it was good that I was able to spend this time (while I was out) properly," he said, looking ahead.

catcher Yuma Tongu (29), who injured his right knee during spring training in February, plans to increase the intensity of his drills, including sprints and defense practice. Aiming for the same "May return" as Sugimoto, he said with conviction, "I can swing the bat. I feel happy just to be able to baseball." The team is currently leading the league with a seven-game lead. The established players are also picking up the pace. (Toru Nagata)