Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Giants’ Kai Vows Rebound as SoftBank’s Ozeki Emerges as Opening Day Candidate

Public workouts on January 13 showcased preseason resolve alongside emerging role expectations.

Overview

  • Giants catcher Takuya Kai opened training to the public in Oita and said he wants to win as he pursues payback for last season.
  • Kai’s first year after moving from SoftBank ended with a right middle‑finger fracture in August, limiting him to 68 games and leaving him dissatisfied with his results.
  • SoftBank left‑hander Tomohisa Ozeki held an open session in Chikugo, focusing on delivery precision and reworking his two‑seam to raise strikeouts.
  • Following a career‑best 13 wins and a winning‑percentage title last season, Ozeki is being reported as a leading choice to start Opening Day, saying he would gladly take the assignment if given.
  • With SoftBank chasing a third straight championship, Ozeki said he aims to help offset the departure of two‑time wins leader Kohei Arihara to Nippon‑Ham.