◆ Pacific League: Orix Buffaloes vs. Seibu Lions (3rd, Hotto Motto Kobe)

Orix Buffaloes infielder Masahiro Nishino was removed from the active roster on the 3rd, along with pitcher Raiku Katayama. In his 12th professional season, he has appeared in 29 games so far, batting .182 with no home runs or Home Run. He started at third base and RBI seventh in the game against Nippon-Ham Fighters on June 30th (ES CON FIELD), but went hitless in two At Bat hit and has not appeared since.

In his 25th year, he struggled at the start of the season, batting only .200 in the first nine games, and was removed from the active roster on April 21st. Nevertheless, he continued to face himself without losing heart, even participating in extra defensive drills after games with younger players in the minor leagues. After being recalled to the first team on May 20th, he made the most of his characteristic clutch hitting and tenacity. In the end, he finished with a batting average of .287 in 75 games, and recorded career highs of 7 Home Run and 35 RBI.

The 35-year-old oldest fielder, who approaches practice with humility no matter the circumstances and enjoys the deep trust of the coaching staff, is updating the skills he has cultivated in preparation for the day he is needed again.