Taishi
Hirai

Hirai continues to improve his overall game every time he is seen. Defensively, Hirai showed good hands and a fast transfer; he moves his feet well, approaching ground balls and works through the ball fast. He is good at getting his feet underneath him and can throw from multiple angles. Arm projects him as a second baseman, but his speed from glove to transfer could allow him to slide over.  Hitting wise, Hirai was slow to load and fast to contact with his moves. He keeps his body moving well through his swing; producing line drives up the middle and opposite fields. Could benefit from working on staying connected through his swing and adding strength in the box. A high energy player who understands his role as a defence first, get on base type of player.

Hirai has made some significant improvements to his overall game. Hirai showed a fast, short swing at the plate that allowed him to spray balls around the field. Power is not there yet, but with added strength and consistency with his moves, Hirai could be a guy who gets on base a lot. On the infield, he was sound. Fast-moving into and through the ball, good glove skills, and a quick arm makes for a quality infielder capable of making all the routine plays. Quick hands also showed his ability to throw from a lower arm slot on the run.