On the 3rd, the Orix Buffaloes officially announced the signing of a contract for next season with manager Mamoru Kishida. Their chances of advancing to the CS were completely eliminated during the game against the Softbank Hawks at Kyocera Dome Osaka on September 16th, confirming their first B-class finish in two years. Ahead of the final game of the season against the Rakuten Eagles on the 3rd (at Rakuten Mobile Park Miyagi), they sit in 4th place in the Pacific League with 10 games under .500. Following the final home game against Nippon-Ham at Kyocera Dome Osaka on September 26th, Kishida revealed he had been requested to continue in his role, emphasizing, "We truly cannot stay as we are. Naturally, we will aim for that (the championship)."

This season, there was a succession of injuries and long-term absences among both pitchers and hitters. 'We must devise measures to prevent this, utilizing various new equipment and other resources,' he said with emphasis. Amidst the team's difficult situation, Mukunoki established himself as a set-up man in relief, while fielders such as Yamanaka and Kita grew into regular roles. 'Young players are emerging, so they must continue to level up and become the players who will lead the Orix Buffaloes. I want to focus our efforts there,' he promised.