◆ Nomura expressed his hope that "Maeda Kenta will show his true potential."

Rakuten Eagles 's Kenta Maeda, who will be returning to Japanese baseball this season for the first time in 11 years, held a public training session on the 10th. Maeda played for The Tigers last season, pitching in seven games with a record of 0 wins and 0 losses and ERA of 7.88. He has a total of 165 win in Japan and the US.

Regarding the right-handed pitcher, who is entering his 20th year as a professional, commentator Nomura Hiroki on Fuji TV ONE's "Professional baseball News 2026," broadcast on the 12th, expressed his expectations, saying, "I was wondering where he would end up, and wherever he returns, he's a junior, so I'll be rooting for him genuinely. It's been 11 years since he last played, but I want to see Maeda Kenta show us what he's all about. I hope he does his best."

When another commentator, Takagi Yutaka, asked, "Is there a chance he will be the opening pitcher?" Nomura replied, "I think there is a possibility. I think there is a good chance."

☆ Cooperation: Fuji TV ONE "Professional baseball News 2026"