Orix Buffaloes outfielder Tokumasa Chano will be transferring to Seibu Lions in the active player draft. He joined the team as the fourth pick in the 2022 development draft from Tokushima in the Shikoku League League, and in his first year as a pro, he became the first rookie from the development team to be in the opening starting line-up. He played in 91 games, including hitting the first bases loaded slam in June. His playing time decreased to 16 and then 3 games in his second year. However, his skillful bat control was highly praised. GM Junichi Fukura expressed his hopes for Chano, saying, "I hope he takes this as an opportunity and works hard over there (Seibu Lions). I hope he plays with the intention of becoming a regular." Manager Mamoru Kishida also offered his support, saying, "He's got speed and a variety of other assets. I hope he blossoms in his new environment."
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・ [Active Player Draft] Seibu Lions acquires Orix Buffaloes 's Tokumasa Chano, "I'll put everything I've got into the fight" and will be the first development rookie to be in the starting starting line-up for the opening game in 2023
・ [Active Player Draft] Orix Buffaloes acquires Shota Hiranuma from Seibu Lions. He's the Orix killer this season... GM Fukura says, "They've been beaten quite a bit."
・ [Orix Buffaloes] Tokumasa Chano, who was registered as a controlled player on the 24th, will be the opening starter in the eighth batter and right field position, the first player in history to join the development starting line-up in his first year.
・ [Orix Buffaloes] Rookie development player Tokumasa Chano is currently on the rise, saying, "Don't worry about buying sweets from convenience stores." He's aiming for a title in his first year.
・ [Lotte] Atsuki Taneichi, who will start against Orix Buffaloes on the 4th, will be on mound for the first time, saying, "I want to be able to adjust."
