Takahiro Saeki, who appeared on "Professional baseball News 2026" broadcast on Fuji TV ONE on the 19th, named Shota Abe as his favorite Orix Buffaloes player this year.

When asked why, he explained, "I think he was in full swing when Orix Buffaloes was strong. But his form has been declining for the past two years and he hasn't been able to produce results. He's 33 years old, but he's only just become a professional. He came from the corporate world. So I want him to lead the young pitcher."

"I think veterans are doing their best to take care of themselves. Mid-career players who are on the verge of becoming veterans have the role of leading the younger players while also taking care of their own things. I think he can do that," he said, expressing his expectations.

He said, "Starting this year, I'm going to try side throws. Coach Higa is a specialist in side throws. I think it's a good opportunity for the coach to show his skill, his arm, and put pressure on the two of them. Orix Buffaloes He was the one who was responsible for getting the game back on track when the pitcher was strong, or for comfortably passing the baton to the pitcher in the back. Orix Buffaloes In his own view, "I'm looking forward to it, because there are no sidestrows in the

Abe pitched in 44 games with ERA of 0.61 in 2022, when the team won consecutive league championships, and pitched in 49 games ERA of 2.70 in 2023, when the team won three consecutive league championships. Last season, he had ERA of 3/07, but pitched in 16 games.

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