[Seibu Lions] 5th draft pick Hiroto Hiraguchi moves into the dormitory with "the most important thing in hand" | Pacific League

[Seibu Lions] With "the most important thing in hand," No. 5 draft pick Hiraguchi Hiroto moves into the dormitory. "It's finally starting."

Sports Hochi

January 6, 2026 20:32

Seibu Lions development draft pick No. 5 pitcher Hiroto Hiraguchi moves into the "Young Lions Dormitory" (photographer: Ayami Onaka)

Seibu Lions' fifth-round draft pick, pitcher Hiroto Hiraguchi (22), moved into the Wakashishi dormitory in Tokorozawa, Saitama on the 6th.

Hiraguchi frankly revealed his feelings, saying, "I'm looking forward to it finally starting." When he moved into the dormitory, he brought with him the glove that he called "the most important thing" that his coach gave him when he was a sophomore and that he has used in both practice and games.

His goal is to "closer the ball under control with control and sharpness, even if it's around 140 km/h (fastball)," said Otake of Hanshin Tigers, who has a similar pitch style. Looking ahead to the year that begins on a new stage, he said enthusiastically, "I'm really determined to aim to become a regular player from my first year."