The Seibu Lions announced on the 3rd that they held a press conference following contract negotiations with pitcher Kenshin Kawashima (Ryukoku University Heian High School), who was selected as their second developmental draft pick.

Kawashima commented through the team, 'I finally feel like I'm becoming a professional baseball player. On the day of the draft, I was watching the broadcast at the school facilities with my classmates, parents, and school staff. I felt a lot of tension and anxiety, so more than anything, I was relieved when I was selected. My greatest strength is my fastball. In the future, I want to become a pitcher who represents the Japanese baseball world. After joining, I first aim to be registered as a regular player within two years and want to become a pitcher who can pitch in the first division. Since this will be my first time living in a dormitory, I want to prepare my daily life well so that it doesn't interfere with my practice before moving in.'