On the 3rd, Softbank Hawks outfielder Tomoya Masaki attended contract renewal negotiations at the team office at Mizuho PayPay Dome and signed for 25 million yen, a 5 million yen reduction (estimated amount). He started the season as the fifth hitter, but suffered a subluxation of his left shoulder in a game against Seibu Lions on April 18th (Belluna D). He underwent surgery and only played in 17 games. He returned in the postseason, but stated, "It was a season where I couldn't do anything. There was no negotiation involved."
During his absence, outfielder Tatsuru Yanagimachi a senior at Keio University, made a big breakthrough, further strengthening outfield. Aiming to regain his regular spot, he said enthusiastically, "(Yanagimachi) is a great hitter to begin with. I thought that was what I expected. I've always known that I can't play in games unless I beat people like that, but I feel that more than usual. I can't play half-heartedly. I have to go all the way."
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