Softbank Hawks On December 12, it became definitive that the Nationals will acquire John Duplantier pitcher (31), who Hanshin Tigers became a free agent, as a new foreigner. Kay, a former DeNA player, has returned to the majors, and the team has been conducting a full-fledged search for the right-hander in parallel. The starting lineup is expected to become even deeper.

Duplantier had a 6-3 record and a ERA 1.39 record in 15 games since his first year in Japan, striking out 113 struck out in 90 2/3 innings, demonstrating his ability. In addition to Hanshin Tigers, which had been in negotiations to retain him, other NPB teams have also been looking into acquiring him, but Softbank Hawks 's enthusiasm seems to have outweighed theirs. Negotiations are now in the final stages.

Next season, ace left-hander Moinelo will be treated as a Japanese player. Negotiations for retaining Arihara, who became a free agent, are continuing, and the acquisition of Wei Chuan (Taiwan) right-hander Xu Ruoxi (25), pitcher throws at a maximum speed of 158 km/h, is also imminent. Their goal is to win three consecutive league championships for the first time since relocating to Fukuoka in 1989. The Pacific League champions will not let up on their reinforcement efforts.