``I'm not satisfied with where I am now. I want to become a shortstop that is trusted.'' Hanshin shortstop Seiya Kinami, who spoke with strong determination, was taught by alumnus Takashi Toritani, who was invited as a temporary coach, to help him take the first step towards hitting the ball. I received thorough guidance on the importance of this.
Kinami established himself as a regular shortstop from the beginning of last season, won the Best Nine and the Golden Glove Award, and greatly contributed to Japan's first title in 38 years.
At Hanshin's camp on the 6th, Toritani, who has won the Golden Glove Award, which is given to great defensive players, five times in shortstop and third place, was invited as a temporary coach.
Kinami asked how his defense looked last year, and Toritani gave him some advice to further improve his technique, such as "starting faster when catching a ball." received.
When I knocked, Mr. Toritani was right behind me, and by having him press my waist, I was able to instill in my body the feeling of a quick start to my first step.
Even after his individual practice, Kinami continued to practice silently by himself in the indoor practice field, reviewing what he had been taught.
After finishing his interview with the press, Toritani saw him and went to visit Kinami.
For about 10 minutes, he received "secondary instruction" such as how to toss to second.
Kinami, who embodies manager Akifu Okada's philosophy of defending and winning baseball as a member of the two-player team, and who had the greatest joy last season, spoke of his determination to lead the team to its first consecutive championship without feeling arrogant. .
"I want to be a shortstop that is trusted. I'm only thinking about getting better, and I'm not satisfied with where I am right now. I want to always look for ways to get better."