catcher Takeru Furuichi (23), who is set to transfer to DeNA as compensation for outfielder Masayuki Kuwahara joining as a free agent, said goodbye to Seibu Lions fans on the 10th.

He received the news of his transfer while visiting his hometown of Kagawa, and rushed back earlier than planned.

Regarding his transfer in his fifth year, he said, "I never expected it. I'm happy because they need me, but I'm also anxious, and I love The Lions so much that I'm a bit sad." The day of the transfer was the day the rookie joint voluntary training was open to the public. When he greeted the gathered fans, saying, "I'll do my best even if I go to DeNA," thunderous applause erupted.