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 are ongoing with free agent Arihara to stay, and the team is close to acquiring right-handed pitcher Hsu Ruoxi (25), who has a maximum speed of 158 km/h from Wei Chuan (Taiwan). The team's goal is to become the first team to win the league three consecutive times since moving to Fukuoka in 1989. The Pacific League champions are not letting up on their reinforcements.