On the 17th, the day after the team's first-ever interleague championship, Seibu Lions Lions manager Fumiya Nishiguchi (53) said, "We can't talk about that yet," showing his commitment to staying grounded and fighting for their first league championship since 2019.

The team held a full practice at Orix Buffaloes Buffaloes' facility in Maishima, Osaka, in preparation for their three-game series against Orix Buffaloes Buffaloes starting on the 19th (at Kyocera Dome). They are determined not to repeat past mistakes. In his first year as manager last season, the team finished the interleague series with a 10-8 record, placing fourth overall, but faltered after the league season resumed. Ultimately, they finished the season in fifth place with a deficit of 14 losses. With those bitter memories in mind, he is determined, saying, "As the heat intensified, the team also went downhill. We have to take measures to prevent that from happening this year."

The team's unwavering cleanup hitter, Nevin, will miss the upcoming series starting on the 19th due to discomfort in his left side. Nevertheless, the manager said, "They're playing in a good rhythm. I hope they can keep this momentum going." Without getting carried away, they will steadily move forward and aim to seize the championship for the first time in seven years. (Ayami Onaka)