catcher Hiroki Minei who is returning to DeNA in a free trade from Softbank Hawks, visited the team's facilities in Chikugo, Fukuoka on the 9th. Dressed in a suit, he exchanged greetings with the farm team manager, Kazumi Saito, and other staff members. He moved to Softbank Hawks in the 2022 offseason after exercising his domestic free agency rights. "I knew how strong the team was when I was watching from the outside, but I felt it was an even stronger organization once I was inside. I was truly able to grow over the past four years, being pulled along by those around me," he reflected.

A 35-year-old veteran characterized by his clutch hitting and insightful game-calling. This season, with the addition of Yu Yamamoto via a trade from DeNA in May and the presence of Umino, the catcher corps was solid, resulting in his first year without a first-team appearance in his 13-year career. 'To be honest, I thought this year would be the end,' he admitted. Regarding his return to his former team, where he spent nine years starting in 2014, after a five-year absence, he shared his feelings, saying, 'Truthfully, I was surprised that I would be given another chance.'

He was traded after completing the final year of his four-year contract. 'Even though I left DeNA as a free agent, I am grateful for this connection that allows me to play here again. I want to play without forgetting the debt of gratitude I owe,' he said. Using his four years of experience with the Softbank Hawks as strength, he aims to shine once again with his former team.