◆Farm team practice game: Orix Buffaloes vs. Sankyo Create (22nd, Sugimoto Shoji BS)

Orix Buffaloes Buffaloes catcher Yuma Tongu (29) made his return to competitive play on the 22nd in a farm team practice game against Sankyo Create (at Sugimoto Shoji BS), his first game in three months. He injured the back of his right knee when he hit Home Run in an intrasquad game on February 11th, and has been carefully hit while taking precautions to prevent recurrence. He went 0-At Bat-4 as the "number 3 hitter and designated hitter," but it was a significant step forward.

"It was great to be able to baseball again after so long; it really made me feel alive." Although he didn't get the satisfying hit he wanted, just being able to play in his uniform was a reward in itself. He was also able to react to sudden movements during the game, even in base running, which puts a strain on his knees. "I didn't feel any pain, so it was great," he said excitedly.

He plans to continue to get more at-bats at DH and will also take over at first base defense next week. I want to continue to improve my condition while getting at bats. I would like to get back to the first team as soon as possible. The first place hitter finish in the 23rd will be accelerated. （The top ranks for 2011 will be accelerated.)