Samurai Japan infielder Sosuke Genda (30 = Seibu) also said, “I think it will be difficult.” It is about Takumu Nakano (26 = Hanshin), an infielder who is expected to be used in both the two games at WBC.

On the first day of the training camp, Nakano said, “I heard from Mr. Genda how to use his right foot when catching a ball.” It is said that Genda recommended “Gani-mata” for Nakano, whose right leg goes inward and his body tends to flow. This allows him to step on his right foot and create a “tame” until he catches the ball. With this “tame”, it was content that there is room to respond even when the bounce does not match.

Just like Nakano “covered”, it was a unique opportunity for Hanshin reporters to cover players from other teams. How does Genda see Nakano’s defense? First of all, the speed of Nakano, who was also the stealing king in 21 years, was mentioned as a point.

“I thought he was good at fine movements because his legs move really well, and he has a wide range of defense.”

Genda himself is also a fast-footed owner who has stolen 30 bases or more for three consecutive years since 2017, his rookie year. That’s why you should have felt the benefits more than anyone else. “I think there will be a difference in defensive range and forward movement.” He praised Nakano’s move to make full use of his own weapon.

On the other hand, as the word “hard” at the beginning suggests, maintaining high quality between the two games is not an easy task for a master of the Golden Glove Award for five consecutive years. The hurdle that must be overcome is said to be the angle.

“The angles are quite different between the short and second shots. I haven’t been able to defend the second shots for a while, but sometimes when I practice, I find it difficult to get a sense of, ‘If I keep this angle, I won’t be able to catch it at this angle.’” so’

However, Nakano is confident in catching the ball, saying, “It’s okay to catch a short or a second.” It can be said that Genda’s concerns have already been resolved by his experience in shortstops, which he has been a regular professional for two years, and thorough second base defense practice at the camp in early February.

Samurai Japan training camp is still going on. The base is already made two-play defense. With more practice, it is certain that Hideki Kuriyama (61) will be able to send out with confidence in any situation. Take advantage of the speed that Genda recognizes, and make a big play on the international stage. I can’t wait for the day when I can pull off a balance that even masters admit to be “difficult”.[Hanshin: Ryou Nakano]