◆Nippon Life Interleague Series 2026: Hanshin Tigers vs. Rakuten Eagles (June 17th, Koshien)

Rakuten Eagles pitcher Shoma Fujihira spoke to reporters before the game following the appointment of new manager Yoshii.

The right-hander, who was also selected for the Japanese national team in the WBC, commented on the fact that the new manager is a graduate of pitcher: “Apart from Mr. Ishii, all the other managers I’ve had were from fielder.“Our conversations were mostly about the team, so I rarely had the chance to ask him about anything specific to pitcher,” he revealed, adding, “I’m hoping we can have in-depth discussions about baseball—what I need to do to take my game to the next level and how I’m perceived from the bench.”

He is scheduled to take charge from the game against Lotte on the 19th, and he expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "Mr. Miki was a great manager, but he's different in some ways, not in terms of bloodline, but I think he's someone who will let me into the team. I want to do my best to unite the team and for Mr. Yoshii."