The press conference to announce the new recruits for Rakuten Eagles was held at a hotel in Sendai on the 5th. outfielder Sakagami (22), who was drafted 7th, was announced to number 42.

He named Softbank Hawks 's pitcher (29), who was named Pacific League MVP with a record of 12 wins and 3 losses this season and ERA of 1.46, as pitcher he would like to face. "He has a powerful fastball and breaking ball that curves really well. I want to hit those balls back," he said, imagining the match. "My appeal is that I can produce explosive power in all three areas (running, hitting, and defense). I want to show him running around ground," he said, demonstrating his desire to take on a good pitcher by making use of his physical abilities.