The Orix Buffaloes announced on the 26th that they have notified pitcher Kento Kawase (24) that they will not be renewing his standard player contract for the upcoming season.

He joined the Orix Buffaloes as the first pick in the 2020 developmental draft from Oita Commercial High School. In July 2024, his fourth professional year, he earned a promotion to the regular roster. Last season, he made a breakthrough by appearing in 23 games, recording 1 win (including his first professional win), 1 loss, 3 holds, and an ERA of 3.66. In his sixth professional season this year, he recorded 2 holds and an ERA of 6.43 in 12 games.

He appeared in a total of 43 games, recording 1 win, 2 losses, 5 holds, and an ERA of 4.31. His strength lies in a pitch style that utilizes powerful fastballs and changes in pace, and he also drew attention for the 'sibling showdown' with his older brother, Akira Kawase of the Softbank Hawks.

It is expected that a developmental contract will be offered for next season. Regarding his future, he expressed his intention to think it over carefully, saying, 'There was talk about a developmental contract. Since I hadn't thought about it at all and it was so sudden, I couldn't give an answer right away...' He mentioned that his older brother told him, 'Don't give up,' and continued, 'First and foremost, I want to consult with my brother. I also want to talk to Scout Shimada before making a decision.'