On the 29th, Rakuten Eagles pitcher Shota Watanabe was notified by the team that his contract would not be renewed for the next season, and he was offered a developmental contract.

Sho Watanabe recorded 8 wins in 51 appearances during his first year, utilizing his sharp fastball and palmball as weapons. This season, he appeared in 6 games with the first team, recording 0 wins, 0 losses, and an ERA of 10.50, while in the farm league, he had 1 win, 0 losses, and an ERA of 4.64 across 22 appearances. The right-hander, who visited the team office in Sendai, accepted the situation, saying, 'I was prepared for this because things weren't good this year. Even though I was pitching this year after having surgery last year, I wasn't producing satisfying pitches or results, so I was somewhat prepared.'

He underwent surgery on his right elbow last August. His condition has been improving as the season progresses. Looking ahead, he said, 'The feeling of swinging my arm is getting better. If I can focus on my form mechanics and prepare for next year, I think I'll be more satisfied than I was this year.'

The team offered him a developmental contract along with words of encouragement for his comeback. He responded, 'I am grateful, but I want to take some time to think. I want to consider various options, including other teams,' as he prepares to carefully weigh his future.