Yutaka Takagi and Hatsuhiko Tsuji, who appeared on 'Professional baseball News 2026' broadcast on Fuji TV ONE on the 17th, mentioned Softbank Hawks' Yudai Shoji.

In his second season this year, Shoji recorded a .244 batting average, 1 Home Run, 26 RBI, and 22 stolen bases, and in the CS Final Stage against Nippon-Ham, he was named CS MVP for his performance with a .455 batting average, 2 RBI, and 1 stolen base.

Mr. Takagi predicted regarding the Japan Series against DeNA, "I feel like Masago might become the lucky boy." Mr. Tsuji praised him, saying, "He is a player who has secured a regular spot. With such a strong lineup, even if he struggles, those around him will cover for him. That is how young players grow. I think he gained confidence during this Climax Series; he is fast, and his defense is excellent. He is a great player."

Mr. Takagi gave his seal of approval, saying, 'He has all three major skills. I feel like he is a sharp player of a kind we haven't seen in a long time. His defense range is quite extensive, and he is fast. He has the legs to be safe even if the opposing battery pitches out. His bat control has also improved. I think he will be a key player in the Japan Series.'

☆ Cooperation: Fuji TV ONE "Professional baseball News 2026"