Softbank Hawks announced on the 18th that they have signed a new three-year contract with manager Hiroki Kokubo (54). His previous three-year contract was set to end next season, but they have extended it to the 2028 season. Kokubo led the team to two consecutive league championships in his first year as manager last season, and this year he guided them to their first Japan Series championship in five years. He also received the Shoriki Matsutaro Award for the first time, an award given to managers and players who have made the greatest contributions to the development of professional baseball. With a long-term tenure now assured, the manager commented through the club, "I will continue to build a strong team under the leadership of Oh, inheriting his philosophy and incorporating cutting-edge technology." Next season, The Hawks will aim for their first three consecutive league championships since relocating to Fukuoka.

General Manager Sugihiko Mikasa (51) explained, "We decided to bring him in at this timing, as we wanted him to focus on becoming number one in Japan for the second consecutive year and winning the league for the third consecutive year, rather than waiting for the final year of his contract." He also praised him, saying, "He is aware of his own duties and has excellent coordination skills in strengthening the team."