Orix Buffaloes manager Mamoru Kishida (45) identified "dealing with fastballs" as a challenge for outfielder Yutaro Sugimoto (35) on the 3rd. After returning from pain in both knees and being promoted for the first time on May 26th for the game against DeNA (Yokohama), he recorded a .128 batting average, 0 Home Runs, and 5 RBIs over 15 games. Regarding the slugger who was removed from the active roster on June 26th and continues to adjust in the farm system, the manager revealed clear "criteria" for his re-promotion.

"He still hasn't quite captured straight fastballs over 145 kilometers per hour." So far in the farm league, he has played 37 games with a .296 batting average, 6 Home Runs, and 21 RBIs. His condition is definitely improving, as seen in his two-run shot to left field during the Hanshin Tigers game on August 30th at Hotto Kobe. Beyond that, the manager points out the need for the ability to handle powerful pitches from first-team level pitchers without being overpowered. Precisely because he is positioned as a "player who must deliver," the manager demanded not just results, but also quality in his performance.

Sugimoto himself is facing his challenges head-on, practicing with the batting machine every day at the team facility in Maishima, Osaka. "I want to contribute with my batting again. I must meet the expectations of the fans who support me more," he says, gritting his teeth and sweating through his daily routine. In 2021, he was crowned the Home Run king with 32 shots, and he is now one step away from his 100th career home run. Raoh is not the type of person to end like this. (Shunta Nambu)