On the 4th, Nippon-Ham announced that pitcher Koki Kitayama will change his number from 57 to 15. 15 was worn by pitcher Naoyuki Uwasawa (currently Softbank) until 2023.
Kitayama has been pitching well since being included in the opening rotation this season, with ERA of 1.57, third in the league. He has recorded six wins, including four complete game, which is tied for first place, and has supported the team in their battle for first place. Although it is mid-season, his number has been changed to a number in the 10s, which is typically worn by key players.
Kitayama, who worked up a sweat in his number 57 uniform during the starter practice held at ESCON in the morning, commented, “I think it’s special to be given number in the 10s in the world of professional baseball. I’m truly happy to be entrusted with such number, but at the same time, I feel that it also comes with a sense of responsibility and resolve to live up to the expectations that come with it. From now on, I will strive to improve my level even further so that I can pitch while carrying the hopes of my team and teammates even more with me.”
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AloJapan.com