Seibu Lions pitcher Kona Takahashi participated in autumn training held at the team facility in Tokorozawa City, Saitama on the 20th. He spoke about his thoughts regarding the international free agency rights he acquired during this season.

In his 12th professional season this year, he made 22 starts, finishing with a 9-6 record and a 2.54 ERA. Reflecting on the year, he said, "I got off to a good start in the first half, but struggled during the middle and latter parts. However, I felt I was able to deliver good pitches in my final three outings that will carry over into next year. While I wasn't satisfied with my overall stats, it was a season where I felt a great sense of progress."

Last offseason, he remained with the Seibu Lions despite being granted permission to move to the Major Leagues via the posting system, and he acquired international free agency rights during this season. The right-hander, who joined the team as the first-round draft pick in 2014 from Maebashi Ikuei in Gunma, showed his affection for the team, saying, 'Of course I like The Lions and feel an attachment to them. They have truly allowed me to do many things and let me play freely, which is definitely how I have made it this far, so I am truly grateful.' Regarding his future, he said, 'This is the first time I have been in a situation with so many options. I am thinking about it. To make a good choice, I will take a proper rest. I am at the stage of preparing to make the best possible choice. Compared to last year, I can go anywhere, and since I hold international free agency rights, I think there is more to consider than last year,' suggesting he will seek the best possible decision.