Haruki Nishikawa, the outfielder for the Yakult Swallows, has officially signed his contract renewal, marking a significant increase in his salary. On December 16, during negotiations at the team's Tokyo office, Nashikawa agreed to terms for 3.3 million yen, which is about 1.7 million yen higher than his previous contract.
This will be Nishikawa's second season with the Swallows after his prior stints with the Nippon-Ham Fighters and Rakuten Eagles. He expressed satisfaction with how the last season unfolded, saying, "I want to aim for 33 stolen bases next year as I will be turning 33. I've been practicing toward this goal." This ambitious statement reflects his confidence, particularly as he looks back on his performance this past season, during which he participated in 113 games, recorded ten stolen bases, one home run, and hit .260 with 24 RBIs.
Reflecting on the challenges he faced, Nishikawa noted, "I felt I could have done more this season; I want to achieve more right from the start next year." Transitioning to the Central League for the first time proved tricky, negotiating various strike zones and pitchers he had never faced before. Nonetheless, he is determined to hit the ground running this coming season.
Nishikawa's aspirations go beyond just individual goals. With his previous achievements where he led the league as the stolen base champion four times, he is eager to add another title. Achieving 33 stolen bases would not only signify his personal milestone but also put him on track to potentially capture the title again. "If I can achieve this, then surely, the title will naturally follow," Nishikawa said with certainty.
Having expressed gratitude toward his teammates and the supportive environment around him, Nishikawa's enthusiasm for the upcoming season is palpable. His experience and leadership qualities are particularly valued as the team adjusts after the departure of prominent figures, which Nishikawa acknowledged: "With Aoki leaving, it feels somewhat lonely. He was such a significant presence. While I may not fill his shoes exactly, I hope to bring my own flavor to the team."
Nishikawa's prospects for the future appear bright as he sets his targets: not just for stolen bases, but also closing in on the remarkable 1,500-hit mark, which now rests just 94 hits away. "I’m aiming to reach it early on next season," he added, showcasing his eagerness and confidence.
Moving forward, Nishikawa is committed to more than just speed on the bases. He is exploring new training techniques, particularly drawing from athletics, to refine his running game. “If I can learn techniques from track athletes, I believe I can run even faster,” he said, showcasing dedication that's both serious and hopeful.
2024 looks promising for the Yakult Swallows with Nishikawa set to play dual roles. Not only is he ready to deliver on the field, but he is also motivated to support his teammates and lead the charge as they seek to renew their competitive edge.
