Orix pitcher Shunpei Yamashita pitched 2 scoreless innings in practice match against Lotte. Last year, he injured his back during the summer and left the team.
This year he has vowed to play an active role throughout the season. "I want to be the best in Japan again and be happy," he said of his aspirations. He won nine games and was named Rookie of the Year with his fastball pitching, which was fast at 160 km/h and a sharp breaking ball.