On the 7th, the members of Samurai Japan who will participate in the 'Luxas Asia Professional baseball Championship 2026' (November 12-15, Tokyo Dome) were announced, and Nippon-Ham infielder Shu Yamagata (24) was selected.

In his second season this year, he appeared in 61 games with a batting average of .227 and 5 RBI. In addition to his primary position as shortstop, he handled second and third base at a high level, becoming an indispensable presence for Shinjo's Fighters as a "defense specialist." During his first season last year, he also showed a surprising side by hitting two consecutive Home Runs, including his first professional Home Run off Softbank Hawks' Moinelo. His special skill is playing the piano. This talented graduate of Waseda University Senior High School and Waseda University will now represent Japan for the first time as a professional.

Shu Yamagata. Born May 1, 2002, in Tokyo. 24 years old. Progressed from Kokubunji Little and Inagi Little Senior through Waseda University High School to Waseda University. He is the second professional baseball player from Waseda University High School in 66 years, following former Chunichi player Toru Mori. At Waseda University, he was selected for the Best Nine in the spring of his fourth year and represented the university national team. 176 cm, 82 kg. Right-handed pitcher and batter. His estimated annual salary for this season is 16 million yen.