WORLD BASEBALL CLASSIC: POOL C - CZECHIA VS JAPAN

March 10, 2026

Kazuma Okamoto

Tokyo Dome

Team Japan

Pregame Press Conference

Q. Looking back at the three games, what's your condition so far?

KAZUMA OKAMOTO: Yes, well, I didn't get quite good stats but overall the team won, so this is it, and today I am also going to be hustling.

Q. When you have an at-bat what is in your mind?

KAZUMA OKAMOTO: Well, yeah, I have to face a variety of different type of pitchers. Most of them, I've never faced, so I need to adjust every single bat. These are the things I do.

Q. Team Japan already clinched a first place spot. What's your motivation for today's game?

KAZUMA OKAMOTO: Yes, although we would be three games straight, our expectation is huge. So we are focusing on the game for tonight.

Q. Their probable starter is Satoria. What is your thought about him?

KAZUMA OKAMOTO: He's a good pitcher.

Q. This is the last game of the Tokyo round. What is your expectation to yourself?

KAZUMA OKAMOTO: Yes, let's get a win. I'd like to get a win, and looking forward to Miami with a victory.

Q. You may face Vladimir Guerrero Jr. if you play the Dominican Republic. What conversations did you have, and if you're going to play against him and what's your expectation?

KAZUMA OKAMOTO: Yes, I don't quite talk about the WBC with detail but throughout the international matches, we don't have that much opportunity to play against, so this is a very unique opportunity. So if I play against him, I will put all my effort and do my best.

Q. Day before yesterday, before the game start, Mr. Suganosan, did you talk with him?

KAZUMA OKAMOTO: Just a while ago, he was making fun of me, just a while ago as usual. He's always making fun of me, so I don't even pay attention every single word what he said, so I don't remember what he said.

Q. Let me ask you the numbers regarding the condition. Without numbers, I think you are the only one that can explain your condition. So how do you see your condition right now?

KAZUMA OKAMOTO: Well, my mechanic is not ready yet. That's how I felt, and this game we are hoping to be undefeated so I am still working on it.