Softbank Hawks pitcher Yugo Maeda revealed his desire to join the Japan national team in the future on the 7th. On this day, he participated in pitcher practice at Mizuho PayPay Dome. He adjusted through activities such as catch in preparation for the post-season, where he is expected to pitch.

On this day, the roster for the Japan national team for the 'Luxas Asia Professional baseball Championship 2026' (November 12-15, Tokyo Dome) was announced, and three players from the Softbank Hawks—Masaki, Shoji, and Suguru Suzuki—were selected. Eligibility for the tournament is limited to players aged 24 or younger, or those within their first three years of professional play. Up to three overage players (aged 29 or younger) can also be used, and 21-year-old Yu Maeda also met the selection criteria.

Although the left-hander made a huge leap forward this season with a 12-1 record, he was not selected this time. It is believed that factors such as fatigue from the year were taken into consideration, and Yu Maeda looked ahead to the next opportunity, saying, 'Of course, I have a desire to represent my country. I believe that if I continue to produce good results, I will be chosen.'

DeNA's Matsuo, who was one year senior to him at Osaka Toin and part of the same battery, was also selected for this tournament's roster. The left-hander envisioned joining the full national team, stating, 'I have a strong desire to be properly selected for events like the WBC or the Olympics, where there are no such restrictions (like age).'