Nippon-Ham announced on the 20th that pitcher Koji Fukutani will be leaving the team.

Fukutani commented through the team's official website: 'During the two years since I transferred to The Fighters, I feel I haven't been able to contribute much to the team's strength, and I am very frustrated. I was plagued by guilt many times over my own lack of ability. Even so, I have nothing but words of gratitude for the fans who sent their warm support until the very end. Thank you so much. There were both good times and hard times, but not once in these two years have I regretted coming here or thought "I shouldn't have come to The Fighters." I can say with pride that choosing The Fighters was the right decision. Thank you so much for these two years. I look forward to your continued support in the future.'

Fukutani exercised his domestic free agent rights in the 2024 off-season and moved to Nippon-Ham. He appeared in 14 games during his first year last season and 12 games this season, his second year, recording 0 wins, 1 loss, 1 hold, and an ERA of 4.26.