On the 22nd, Rakuten held a scouting meeting at a hotel in Tokyo. After the meeting, General Manager Kazuhisa Ishii responded to an interview, saying, "I think we'll go with pitcher," clearly stating that the first pick would be pitcher. He continued, "I've already decided on this person," revealing that they have already narrowed down their choices.
Looking at the overall number of players nominated, GM Ishii said, "I think we'll be focusing on pitcher" and plans to select a large number pitcher. They will be selected from a list narrowed down to around 60 players. Regarding Stanford University infielder Rintaro Sasaki, who is now available for selection in the draft, GM Ishii said, "He's in my mind," but added, "I think there will be various difficulties."
Last year, after competing with five teams, President Morii drew Muneyama. When asked who would draw the lottery this year, he replied, "I wonder who... Miki (the manager)." We can look forward to the manager's good luck this year!
Related News
・ [Seibu] Regarding Stanford University's Rintaro Sasaki, General Manager Hiroike says, "It's a very difficult decision"
・ [Nippon-Ham] Scout meeting: CBO Hideki Kuriyama comments on Rintaro Sasaki, "Thinking within the rules"
・ [Hiroshima] Stanford University's Rintaro Sasaki is not a draft candidate. Director Tamura says, "We respect his decision (to play in the US)."
・ [Yakult] GM Junichi Ogawa lists 12 candidates for first pick at scouting meeting, "We need to be prepared for some competition" - final decision to be made on the 22nd
・ [Yakult] Draft candidates narrowed down to 75 at scouting meeting. Stanford University's Rintaro Sasaki is also "on the list."
