Rakuten Eagles Eagles manager Masato Yoshii revealed on the 30th the reason why he named pitcher Takahisa Hayakawa as the "opening pitcher" for the second half of the season.

The manager's feelings were evident. The second half of the season starts on the 31st, and he entrusted the starting mound for the first game to Hayakawa. Manager Yoshii explained, "It's the same feeling as having the opening day pitcher. It sends the message that 'The Eagles will fight with this pitcher at the center of it all.'"

This season, Hayakawa has started 13 games, with a record of 4 wins and 4 losses and ERA 2.93. In his last start on the 22nd against Lotte (at ZOZO Marine Stadium), he gave up 10 hit and 8 runs in 5 innings, suffering his fourth loss. After the disappointing start, the manager communicated with Hayakawa. "I asked him what he was thinking, and in our conversation, he was saying things that were similar to what we're looking for. I told him, 'Do your best.'" He confirmed that they were on the same page. He also said he gave him one last word: "We're going to put you in first in the second half of the season." The manager entrusted the left-hander with the first game of the second half.

This isn't just a coincidence. There are expectations that he will grow even further as a pillar of the team. "I want him to show a determination to win. I think he's pitcher who can still improve. I hope he can bring out that potential," he said.

The team is currently in last place with a deficit of 18 losses. However, since manager Yoshii took over, they have shown signs of improvement with a record of 13 wins and 14 losses. In the second half of the season, they are aiming for a further comeback. Hayakawa will lead the charge, carrying the manager's "message" on his shoulders.