Samurai Japan's training camp in Miyazaki features limited practice time, primarily aimed at preventing injuries and preparing for the World Baseball Classic (WBC). Players usually have to adjust quickly, as pre-game warm-ups can only last about an hour, in contrast to the typical extended practices seen in professional baseball games. Particularly, Kousuke Kondo, who performed well in the last WBC, is highlighted for his ability to adapt effectively to these constraints, suggesting that his batting order in the lineup could significantly influence the team's performance.

Kondo made an impressive start during practice on the 18th, recording a hit in his first intrasquad match. His statistics from the previous WBC, where he boasted a .346 batting average over seven games, contributed significantly to Japan's championship victory. In discussions about the batting order for the upcoming tournament, suggestions have been made about placing Kondo in the second spot, directly behind star player Shohei Ohtani, who might lead off. This strategic alignment could optimize scoring opportunities, as Kondo is known for his high on-base percentage.

With the WBC approaching, the Samurai Japan coaching staff led by Hirokazu Ibata is closely observing player's performances. The final evaluation will occur during their first actual game on the 22nd against SoftBank, where Kondo is set to start as the right fielder. The coaching team is considering the ideal lineup to ensure that they not only minimize the risks of injuries but also maximize offensive output, especially focusing on leveraging the strengths of both Kondo and Ohtani in tandem.