It was revealed on the 25th that Softbank Hawks infielder Yuto Akihiro (24) is not part of the team's plans for next season. Along with Ooe, who has already been notified that he is outside of the team's plans, he joined from The Giants in May of last year through a two-for-one exchange trade for Richard. In this season, his second with the team, he was unable to make an appearance with the first squad.

Akihiro joined The Giants as a fifth-round draft pick in 2020 from Nishogakusha University High School. Expected to succeed due to his gifted physique of 201 centimeters and 107 kilograms, he inherited number 55, which was worn by former manager Hideki Matsui during his playing days. In 2023, he achieved his personal best results in 121 games with a .273 batting average, 10 Home Runs, and 41 RBI. However, his success did not continue the following year in 2024, as he finished with no home runs.

After joining the Softbank Hawks via a trade in May 2025, he got off to a good start. In his debut game against the Seibu Lions on May 15 (Mizuho PayPay Dome), he started as the number six hitter and left fielder, recording his first hit since the transfer. However, he ultimately finished with only one Home Run in 22 games, and he was unable to overcome the difficult situation this season as well.

Masaki, who plays the same positions of first base and left field, has fully blossomed as a regular player. Although he hit two home runs with the bases loaded in a farm league game against Hiroshima (held in Yuu) on July 11, he ended the season without a single first-team appearance since 2022. The 24-year-old is in his sixth year as a professional. It appears the club will offer Akihiro a re-contract as a developmental player.