[Orix] Ryo Ota is seriously considering changing number from “31” to “1” and is expected to “promote” to join the ranks of his star players
Sports Hochi
2025.11.21(金) 05:00
On the 20th, it was found that Orix is seriously considering changing the number of Ryo Ota infielder (24). When he joined the team as the first pick in the 18th draft from Tenri, he completely secured a regular at second base this season, his 7th year as a professional. From “31” to “1”, it seems that it will be a “big success” that represents high expectations.
Ota looks set to join the ranks of their star players. He has improved since appearing in 91 games last year, posting a batting average of .283 in 113 games, with 10 Home Run and 52 RBI, both of which are career highs. The team is anticipating further growth and is apparently considering giving him number 1 jersey.
In the second baseman of the team, Junichi Fukura (current GM) wore the number “1” from 88 to 97 during the Hankyu era. Mitsuson Goto (Taiwan, Fubon coach) and others have increased their value. Last year’s off-season, Shuhei Fukuda (leaving the team only this season) returned, so this season is a vacant number. There is no hindrance to the change, and it seems to be a source of inspiration for Ota.
On this day, he kicked off his fall training camp in Kochi. He spent time strengthening defense skills from the first day on the 6th, and exuded a sense of fulfillment, saying, “Even though I was exhausted every day, I was able to train and do what I wanted to do.” His signature hit is the long hit in the opposite direction. He will continue to innovate and shoulder the future of Orix.
〇…Hirano, who will also be serving as pitcher coach, had a fulfilling camp. In bullpen, he gave advice on fork to rising pitchers like Teranishi, and energetically coached them on things like batting practice. He focused on learning the coaching business, and said with a smile, “I was able to learn more about the characteristics and personalities of pitcher. I’m glad I came to Kochi.” Next season will be the 21st year as a professional for the legendary closer, who is a member of the Hall of Fame. “Seeing the young pitcher made me want to play baseball again,” he said, and he intends to keep preparing even as an active player.
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AloJapan.com