On the 31st, Keio University infielder Keisuke Imazu (21), who was selected by Nippon-Ham as the fifth pick in the developmental draft, received a post-draft visit at the school in Yokohama from Assistant GM and Scouting Director Takashi Obuchi and scout Kazunori Yamamoto.

Before starting a new chapter in his life, Imazu said, "I feel a sense of renewed focus. They spoke to me about the reality of professional life and the necessary mindset." Born in Asahikawa, he has been a fan of The Fighters for as long as he can remember. During his elementary school years, he used to cheer from the stands at Asahikawa Starffin Stadium. "I watched from the third-base side while pitcher Shohei Ohtani was starting. I even had merchandise of the mascot B.B." Now, it is his turn to excite the fans of The Fighters.

He was selected as the fifth developmental draft pick. Among the ten players selected by Nippon-Ham, including those on the main roster, he is at the very bottom. From here, there is nowhere to go but up. 'My goal is to be registered on the main roster, and I want to work frantically toward that,' he said. His father, Kansuke, is the Mayor of Asahikawa, and his grandfather, Hiroshi, is a former member of the House of Representatives. Although he once mentioned his future dream was to become 'Prime Minister,' he is now solely focused on the path of baseball, stating, 'First, I want to do my best to make a name for myself as a baseball player.'

The scout in charge, Yamamoto, expressed high expectations, saying, 'His clutch hitting and energetic playing style are impressive. He has an appealing aura that makes you feel like he will make something happen.' After moving to Tokyo from Asahikawa Higashi, a public college-prep school, and undergoing intense training, he earned a regular spot in the Keio University baseball team, which has over 200 members, and eventually took on the heavy responsibility of captain. 'My batting is my greatest weapon. I want to be a player who can get the hit that decides the game in crucial moments,' said Imazu. Dreaming of the day he will respond to the massive cheers at Es Con Field, he continues his rise to the top. (Hiroshi Kato)

Keisuke Imazu. Born November 3, 2004, in Asahikawa City. 21 years old. Started baseball in the first grade of elementary school with the Kyoryo Baseball Youth Team. Played for Asahikawa Hokuryo Senior in junior high school. First entered the bench at Asahikawa Higashi in the fall of his first year. Captain from the fall of his second year. Led the team to a runner-up finish in the North Hokkaido Tournament in the summer of his third year for the first time in 53 years. Made his first league appearance at Keio University in the spring of his second year. Became a regular starter from the spring of his third year. Appointed captain in December 2025. Won the 2026 Spring League Championship, finished as runner-up in the University Championship, and was selected for the Samurai Japan University National Team. His idol is outfielder Ichiro. 176 cm, 74 kg. Right-handed thrower and switch hitter.