Softbank Kohei Arihara pitcher was announced as a free agent by the Japan baseball Organization (NPB) on the 2nd. The three-year contract ends this season. Arihara, who returned to Japan from the Rangers in the 22nd off, has the intention to re-challenge the American baseball world, and it seems that he will explore the path of major transfer, but it is now possible to negotiate with other clubs in Japan.

Softbank has offered a multi-year contract and is continuing negotiations to keep him, and GM Sugihiko Mikasa expressed his desire for him to stay, saying, "There is no change in our stance." Regarding the circumstances that led to his becoming a free agent, he explained, "Although some reports have suggested this was not the result of any discussions." Arihara's contract included a clause that made him a free agent upon expiration, so it was a "predetermined course."