Shoki Murakami has been appointed as the opening pitcher for the Hanshin Tigers for the second consecutive season, as the team prepares to defend its title in the upcoming league. Head coach Kiyoshi Kojima disclosed the decision on the 27th during an overall practice at Koshien Stadium, expressing confidence in Murakami's abilities. Together with catcher Seishiro Sakamoto, the duo had a formidable performance last season that helped lead Hanshin to a historic league victory and earned them the best battery award.