It was learned on the 28th that Orix Buffaloes infielder Yuma Mune (30) has decided to exercise his domestic free agent rights. He acquired the rights this June, and with an annual salary of 62 million yen, he is considered a C-rank player for whom no financial or human compensation will be required. He has already informed the club of his intentions and plans to submit the application documents on or after the 29th.

Mune joined the team as a second-round draft pick in 2014 from Yokohama Hayato. He gained experience at shortstop and in the outfield. Since securing the regular third base position in 2021, he has won the Best Nine and Golden Glove awards for three consecutive years, contributing to the Pacific League three-peat. In addition to his brilliant defense, he made a leap forward in hitting this season, his 12th year. His 14 Home Runs and 65 RBI were career-best performances, and he demonstrated clutch hitting with a .350 batting average with runners in scoring position.

The team highly values him as an indispensable asset for next season and beyond, and has requested that he stay with the team based on a long-term contract and a significant salary increase. Mune himself has a strong sense of gratitude and attachment to the team, while at the same time prioritizing an environment where he can grow further as a player. Behind the scenes, multiple teams are conducting investigations, and it is likely that a bidding war will develop.