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 Softbank Hawks pitcher Gota Suzuki was selected.

He joined the team as the third-round draft pick last fall from Osaka University of Commerce. Throwing moving fastballs, cutters, and forks from a sidearm delivery, he appeared in 40 games this season. Demonstrating nerves of steel even in tight situations, he contributed to the team's third consecutive league title with a stable performance and an ERA of 1.74.

Japan national team pitcher coach Shinji Kurano, who serves as the pitcher chief coach and head coordinator for the Softbank Hawks, had also expressed his trust during the season, stating, "The level of trust in him is growing day by day. It is a fact that he is producing results, and he is stable. That is a strength." Even on the stage of representing Japan, which he is doing for the first time including his amateur days, he swings his arm with confidence.

Gota Suzuki. Born August 31, 2003, in Shiga Prefecture. 23 years old. Joined the Softbank Hawks as the third-round draft pick in 2025 after attending Tokai University Shizuoka Shoyo and Osaka University of Commerce. 175 cm, 86 kg. Right-handed pitcher and right-handed batter.