Softbank Hawks GM Sugihiko Mikasa spoke to the press at Mizuho PayPay Dome and explained the circumstances behind pitcher Nao Higashihama's (36) free trade to Hiroshima.

Regarding the pitcher with such a proven track record, since he had no opportunities to pitch in the first team this year, we consulted with him and decided to look for a place where he could play. As a pitcher who has contributed to The Hawks for many years, we had high expectations for him this year as well, but since he simply didn't have many chances to pitch, we reached an agreement with Hiroshima after finding a connection. He stated that he respected the player's own desire for more playing time. Higashihama joined as the first-round draft pick in 2012, and the right-hander, who has been with The Hawks his entire career, has a total of 76 wins and 46 losses, including winning the most victories title in 2017. Although he had no opportunities to pitch this season, he has served as a starter for the winning team for many years.

Additionally, the team currently has 61 players on the active roster, including Higashihama and foreign players like Stewart, whose future status is still undecided. Since nine players were selected in the draft for the active roster, the total would reach the limit of 70 if everyone joined. 'From that perspective as well, we made this decision,' the GM explained.