◆ "Depending on who's batting cleanup, I think these two could shine."

On the 5th, Seibu Lions announced that they had agreed to sign infielder Kazunari Ishii who declared free agency from Nippon-Ham. This marks the second player to be acquired after Masashi Kuwahara, who exercised his overseas free agency rights from DeNA.

On the 8th, Fuji TV ONE's "Professional baseball News 2025" commentator Chikaoki Ikeda commented on Seibu Lions 's offseason reinforcements, saying, "At first, I thought they would acquire pitcher since they were losing two pitcher, but I feel like they acquired a player who can really get into the team and lead them, and a player who can become a team leader." Another commentator, Yosuke Hiraishi, analyzed, "As for Kuwabara, he's a really gutsy player who can lead with his play. Seibu Lions currently has Manaya Nishikawa and Seiya Watanabe in outfield, but there is one spot open. As for Ishii, the second baseman/shortstop position is a bit thin. Depending on who the team's cleanup hitter is, I think these two could shine."

Regarding his preferred position, Hiraishi said, "Personally, I'd like to see Nishikawa play center field. His defense is incredible, and I think he's among the best in the league. He's also young," while Ikeda commented, "There's a possibility that Kuwabara's position will help Nishikawa grow. He'll probably play center field and both wings... well, he'll probably play anywhere." Ikeda went on to say of Ishii, "He's a player who can play in a variety of positions, so in that sense, it's good that the competition is getting fiercer. He's also a strong hitter, so I think it will be very interesting," to which Hiraishi replied, "He'll probably play second base. He's a competitive hitter and is getting better every year."

☆ Cooperation: Fuji TV ONE "Professional baseball News 2025"