Rakuten Eagles pitcher Wataru Karashima, who has announced his retirement at the end of this season, will start in the game against the Orix Buffaloes on the 3rd (Rakuten Mobile Rakuten Seimei Park Miyagi). The left-hander, who joined the first team on September 30, spoke about his feelings heading into his final career appearance, saying, "My state of mind isn't much different from my previous 210 appearances."

He is scheduled to pitch to one hitter in the game. 'My seniors told me to show a performance that truly gives back to those who have helped me. I've received many comments from people saying they are looking forward to my appearance, so I want to make it a performance that conveys my gratitude to them.' He will swing his arm with all his might, filled with feelings of appreciation.

A retirement press conference will be held at 1:30 PM on the same day. A retirement ceremony will take place after the match.

Wataru Karashima. Born October 18, 1990, in Fukuoka Prefecture. 35 years old. As the ace of Iizuka High School in the summer of his third year, he led the school to its first Koshien appearance. He joined the Rakuten Eagles as the 6th draft pick in 2008. He made his professional debut in 2009 as a rookie. In 2019, he recorded a career-high 9 wins. In 210 total appearances, he has 56 wins, 74 losses, and a 4.01 ERA. 173 cm, 72 kg. Left-handed pitcher and batter. Annual salary is 80 million yen (estimated).