It was decided on the 30th that the Rakuten Eagles will acquire 33-year-old catcher Takuya Kai from The Giants via a cash trade. Both clubs made the official announcement on the same day. GM Kazuhisa Ishii, who spoke to the press that day, explained, 'Both parties reached this decision upon mutual agreement. Basically, we consulted with the desire to welcome Kai to the team. Since Watanabe from Aoyama Gakuin University, whom we selected as our first-round draft pick, will also be joining, I believe having a player whose lead he can follow will enable his growth. I think he will be a very reliable presence.'

Kai exercised his domestic free agency rights during the 2024 offseason while with the Softbank Hawks and moved to The Giants on a large-scale contract totaling 1.5 billion yen over five years (estimated amount). In 2025, his first year with the team, he was sidelined in August due to a fracture in his right middle finger, but he showed his presence in both offense and defense, recording a .260 batting average, 4 Home Runs, and 20 RBI in 68 games. This season, he has appeared in 13 games with only 3 starts as a catcher. His opportunities to play have decreased as Oshiro and captain Kishida have primarily taken the starting catcher roles.

Next season, the team will be required to rebuild after slumping to the bottom of the standings this season. GM Ishii expressed his expectations, saying, 'I believe he is a catcher with a winner's mentality. Since addressing issues for next season is a priority, and because the catcher looks out at everyone, I expect him to inspire the team with a broad perspective.'

Kai is in the second year of a five-year contract this season. His contract with The Giants was set to remain until 2029. This will be a trade transfer during the contract period, which has few precedents.