On the 19th, Seibu Lions Lions underhand right-handed pitcher Kaito Yoza (30) welcomed the signing of former The Giants player Rei Takahashi, whose contract with the team for next season was announced on the 16th.

Takahashi, who is also an underhand pitcher, participated in the "Makita School" hosted by Rakuten Eagles, who was then playing for Rakuten, during the off-season in 2020, and last off-season he held an "Underhand Pitching Club" with DeNA's Hayato Nakagawa and Yakult 's Shimokawa, where they exchanged information. As Takahashi's pitching style is highly prized even within the baseball world, he said, "I'm happy. There are now more people who understand my feelings, or rather, one more person I can empathize with," and is looking forward to the day they will compete together at the "Underhand Pitching Club Saitama Branch."

On this day, he practiced independently at the team's facilities in Tokorozawa, Saitama. Imai and Takahashi have announced that they will be trying out for the majors. Yoza, who has six wins this season, will also be expected to play a central role. "I think there is a lot I can absorb from watching (Takahashi) up close." Even though he has entered his thirties, he has no intention of stopping his growth. (Onaka Ayami)