On the 10th, the Seibu Lions announced that they will dispatch pitcher Akshay More (22) from India, infielder Takumu Imaoka (19), and infielder Francisco Aponte (17) from the Dominican Republic to the Japan Winter League 2026, which will be held in Okinawa Prefecture from November 21st to December 17th.

Comments from the three players are as follows:

Akshay Mohre

I am very happy to be able to participate in the Japan Winter League. I want to challenge myself through competing against high-level players, learn many things from various coaches and players, and improve my pitch technique. I intend to work hard every day and do my absolute best.

[Takumu Imaoka]

I want to gain experience in this Japan Winter League and spend my time productively so that I can carry that experience into the next season. I hope to play in front of many fans of The Lions as soon as possible, so I will do my best to grow even more during this period.

Francisco Aponte

I am very grateful for the opportunity to participate in the Japan Winter League. I am currently very excited to be able to play in a different environment than before and to get to know various pitchers. I will do my best to overcome my own challenges.