◆ Pacific League Orix Buffaloes vs. Lotte (April 4th, Kyocera Dome Osaka)

Orix Buffaloes Sho Gibo infielder He was drafted fifth overall in the 2006 draft by KBC Mirai Okinawa, but was signed to a developmental contract in the off-season of 2012 due to a right shoulder injury. Nevertheless, in his eighth year as a professional, he hit .293 with a .5 RBI and .4 stolen base batting average in 25 farm league games this season, and on April 29 he returned to the lineup after a two-year absence.

He has a reputation for his high-level defense skills, particularly in the middle infield, and manager Kishida has high expectations for him, saying, "He's a well-rounded player with excellent defense, speed, and hitting. He can also play various positions. I want him to go all out and give it his all." He is determined to make a significant contribution to the team on the first-team stage, and he will put that determination into practice through his play.