On October 5, the Orix Buffaloes announced that they have notified pitcher Shota Abe (33) and catcher Yuma Tongu (29) that their standard contracts will not be renewed for next season. They also notified infielder Kazuya Katsuki (30), pitcher Taketo Ashida (26), catcher Kyoichiro Murakami (25), and pitcher Hiroto Suga (21) that their developmental contracts will not be renewed. It is understood that a developmental contract was offered to Tongu, who is currently undergoing rehabilitation following foot surgery. Katsuki will retire from active play, while Abe is considering his options, including continuing his career. The other players wish to continue their professional careers.

Abe joined the team as the 6th draft pick in 2020 from Seibi University and Nippon Life Insurance. Joining at the age of 28, he drew attention as an "old rookie." In his second year, he appeared in 44 games, contributing to the team's championship victory with 22 holds, 2 saves, and an ERA of 0.61. He said, "They thanked me for truly swinging my arm for the sake of the club," and reflected, "Becoming the best in Japan is my greatest memory."

This season, he challenged himself by switching to a sidearm delivery in hopes of a comeback, but he was limited to 13 appearances with a 10.12 ERA. He spoke with pride, saying, 'It was a challenge I had never attempted in my baseball career, so it was very painful and things mostly didn't go as planned, but it was a year that will be a great plus for my life and my baseball career.' He expressed his gratitude for his professional life with the Orix Buffaloes, stating, 'As a baseball player, I was able to experience being the best in Japan and was given the opportunity to pitch in good situations; it was a very happy six years.'

His future is currently undecided. He stated, "I was just told about this now, so I can't think about it at all. Everything, including whether to continue my playing career, is undecided. I want to consult with my family before moving forward."

Kazuki, who joined the Orix Buffaloes after playing for Lotte and The Giants, reflected on his time, saying, 'I have nothing but feelings of gratitude for the three years I spent with the Orix Buffaloes. To be honest, I just want to say thank you very much. Although I wanted to play on the first-team roster as a registered player, these three years allowed me to grow while spending a very enjoyable time with the younger players on the farm team.'

Due to team circumstances, his playing opportunities were limited, but he also supported the team as a veteran player by reaching out to younger players even more than focusing on himself. He revealed, "I was also aiming for a spot on the main roster, but while the hardworking young players were in the starting line-up, I wanted to listen to them and share what I could convey, hoping they would work hard and stay positive while having fun."

Regarding his life on the same team as his senior from Osaka Toin High School, catcher Tomoya Mori, he said, 'It was a wonderful time being able to wear the same uniform and practice batting together during camp and other occasions. I wanted to play together on the first-team roster, but I have nothing but feelings of gratitude.'

Regarding his future, he declared his retirement from active play, stating, "I have given my all as a player. I was allowed to play this far, and I have had great experiences through baseball, so I want to carry that forward into the future." While his specific plans remain undecided, he expressed a desire to work in a field related to baseball.

Interview and text by Masaki Kitano