WORLD BASEBALL CLASSIC: POOL B - CHINA VS JAPAN

March 9, 2023

Yuhei Nakamura

Tokyo Dome

Team Japan

Pregame Press Conference

Q. Finally the opening game will be starting soon. What's in your mind right now?

YUHEI NAKAMURA: I am so excited. I can't wait. I was watching the previous game and many things happened. That's how I understand what the international match is. So all I can say is concentrate as one team and get a win.

Q. About three weeks ago they won, they won at Miyazaki spring training. How is your condition and also how is the team's condition?

YUHEI NAKAMURA: Yes, we have some players from the major league and we play the exhibition games at Osaka. The whole team is in very good condition as well as myself too. So now it's time to play from today and the only aiming we are going is being the world champion. Our momentum is very good.

Q. You, as a catcher, what's your team's role?

YUHEI NAKAMURA: Yes, we have strong depth, especially for the pitching staff. So me as a catcher I am trying to minimize the run so that our offense can swing freely. And it's an international match, so I'm trying to do my best and always trying to do the challenge.

Q. I think previously you spoke with Korea Xan. What is in your mind?

YUHEI NAKAMURA: Well, awhile ago the skipper mentioned to us, just go for it. Finally it's your time. And we are playing for him. I am one of the pieces, so I'm trying to focus my role and lead the team as a catcher.

Q. Day one from the spring training at Miyazaki you've been working hard for three months, three weeks. Are you excited and did you feel any differences like atmosphere of the stadium?

YUHEI NAKAMURA: Yes, I did. This is not totally different than the regular season as I always played. This is such a big stage and this is international matches. Our opponent is also great so these things make me more excited.