Koji Yamamoto is planning to narrow down closer candidates during mini-camp in February.  Whether or not he goes with one pre-defined closer or multiple closers remains to be seen.  Source: Sports Hochi 12/8/2012

===

Tetsuya Utsumi (Yomiuri) used a WBC baseball when playing catch (max distance of about fifty meters) today at Giants Stadium.  Utsumi apparently had some difficulty throwing his change.  Source: Daily Sports 12/9/2012

===

Sho Nakata (Nippon Ham) is willing to do anything to help out.  He will even toss batting practice if necessary.  Source: Nikkan Sports 12/8/2012

===

Seiichi Uchikawa (Softbank) is open to playing left and first.  Source: Sanspo 12/9/2012

===

Hirokazu Sawamura (Yomiuri) is keeping his mouth shut when it comes to questions on how he plans to prepare for the WBC.  Source: Daily Sports 12/9/2012

===

WBC baseballs have been sent out to each of the teams and will be passed out to candidates.  Source: Daily Sports 12/8/2012