On the 4th, Rakuten Eagles announced that outfielder Hiroaki Shimauchi who was released at the end of last season, will retire. Shimauchi commented, "When I first turned pro, I thought I had come to an incredible world. But I was able to continue playing for 14 years thanks to my teammates, manager, coaches, club staff, and the fans who always supported me warmly. There were tough times, but I am proud to have had the opportunity to play for Rakuten Eagles. Thank you very much."
After graduating from Seiryo High School in Ishikawa and Meiji University, he joined the team as the sixth pick in the 2012 draft. In 2013, he played in 97 games, contributing to the team's first league championship and Japan championship, and won RBI title in 2021 and the most hit title in 2022. In recent years, he has struggled with injuries and slumps, and this season hit in just five games. In total, he played in 1,268 games, with 1,174 hit for a batting average of .272, 104 Home Run, and 553 RBI.
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