Seibu Lions Lions pitcher Kosei Takahashi attended contract negotiations at the team's office in Tokorozawa, Saitama Prefecture on the 28th and signed a contract worth an estimated 250 million yen (amount is estimated), a 40 million yen increase.

After the negotiations were completed, Takahashi Mitsuru appeared at a press conference and expressed his aspirations with a refreshing expression, saying, "I want to pitch where I'm most needed, and I have a strong desire to win with The Lions, so I'll do my best and pitch at my full potential this year as well."

Last offseason, Hikaru Takahashi attempted to use the posting system to pursue his long-held dream of moving to Major League Baseball, but he had to give up after failing to reach an agreement on the terms. If all goes well, he will acquire the right to become an overseas free agent this season. He did not comment on whether he would exercise that right, but he expressed his strong desire to play in the majors, saying, "My baseball career isn't over yet, so I want to pitch well this year, achieve career-high results, and then think about it again. It would be the lamest thing to do to give up now."

The right-handed pitcher, who had an 8-9 record and a 3.04 ERA last season, traveled to the United States and trained hard in Arizona for about three weeks. He has also started pitch practice in bullpen, and with a hearty laugh said, "I feel like I can play in the game tomorrow," suggesting that his preparation is going smoothly.