Softbank Hawks' Yugo Maeda made a significant leap this season, his third year as a professional, winning 12 games compared to just one last season.

Although he missed the opening starting rotation, he earned his first win of the season in a game against Lotte on May 10th, and from there went on a 12-game personal winning streak through the game against Lotte on September 11th. He suffered his first loss of the season in a game against the Rakuten Eagles on September 19th, but during the regular season, he pitched 111 2/3 innings across 19 games, boasting outstanding stability with 12 wins, 1 loss, and a 2.10 ERA.

Masaki Saito, who appeared on 'Professional baseball News 2026' broadcast on Fuji TV ONE on October 5th, said, 'In his case, the coaching staff used him very, very carefully at first. He would be replaced after 5 or maybe 6 innings, but that gradually extended until he could pitch 6 or 7 innings, and I think he gained confidence as he pitched. This year, his inning count is 111. He hasn't reached the regulation innings pitched. Next year, I hope he reaches it and goes for the most wins, aiming for 15 or 16 wins.'

Hatsuhiko Tsuji said, 'He has 11 wins over .500. I don't think they calculated for this much. I think it's a runaway performance. He is truly dignified.' Tomotaka Sakaguchi also praised him, saying, 'He is 21 years old. At 21, while he keeps going after batters in the world of professional baseball, he is a pitcher whose intelligence is visible. I think he throws every single pitch while thinking carefully. Having 11 wins over .500 is amazing.'

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