Lotte's Austin Boss pitcher is scheduled to start in the open game against The Giants on the 22nd.

Through the team, the boss commented, "My child (my second child and eldest son) was born on the 19th, so it feels very special. I had the option of returning to Japan temporarily this time, but after discussing it with my wife and I, we decided to prioritize the team and be in top condition for the opening game, as it is a very important time as it is just before the new team's opening day. I am currently receiving photos and videos from America, and he is so cute. I am looking forward to the day I can meet him."

The boss' last time on the mound was in an exhibition game against Hiroshima on the 14th, where he threw 49 pitches over 3 innings, allowing 3 hit, 3 strike out 2 runs. However, he pitched 3 runs innings against Softbank on March 8th and 2 runs closer against Korea Lotte on March 1st.