Softbank On April 14, Hiroki Kokubo, 53, the manager of the Japan Professional Baseball League, revealed that Ryoya Kurihara infielder (28), who is out with pain in his right side, is doubtful to play in the season opener against Lotte (Mizuho Peipay). He said, "It might be a little long. I don't know if that (participation in the season opener) will be possible," he said of his future prospects. Kurihara, a regular third baseman player, hit his right side hard when he collided with wall in a game against The Giants in Nagasaki on November 11, and has been on a separate menu since December 12.
Regarding infielder Kenta Imamiya (33), who is currently in training with the second team after injuring his left calf during training camp, he explained, "As long as it doesn't recur, he will be ready for the opening game." Imamiya will return to action in today's Western League against Chunichi (Chikugo) and join the first team within the next week.
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