Masashi Saito, who appeared on "Pro baseball News 2026" broadcast on Fuji TV ONE on the 30th, commented on Nippon-Ham starting pitcher Kohei Arihara, who started against The Giants but gave up 4 runs in 7 innings, resulting in his 5th loss.

Saito pointed out, "He's been pitching in the farm league too, but his fastball sharpness, breaking ball sharpness, and control feel like he's not his true self. He has a sharper fastball, and with his case, his velocity will probably increase. If he throws more fastballs, I think other breaking ball will be more effective too."

Arihara won the most wins title for two consecutive years from 2012 while playing for Softbank Hawks, and returned to Nippon-Ham this offseason. However, he has struggled so far, having pitched 34 1/3 innings in 6 games, with a record of 1 win and 5 losses and ERA of 7.34, after experiencing readjustment in the minor leagues.

☆ Cooperation: Fuji TV ONE "Professional baseball News 2026"