On the 11th, Rakuten Eagles pitcher Chiharu Tanaka (26) attended a contract renewal meeting in Sendai City and signed for an estimated annual salary of 16 million yen, an increase of 3 million yen.

In his first year after joining as human compensation for Takahiro Norimoto, who moved to The Giants via free agency in the 2025 off-season, he started this season on the opening day first-team roster. He recorded his first professional save in the match against the Seibu Lions (Belluna Dome) on April 4th, and finished with a record of 1 win, 2 losses, 1 save, 4 holds, and an ERA of 3.20 over 19 appearances, reflecting that 'I was unable to contribute to the team during the summer months.'

He started two games in the Phoenix League. Heading into his fifth professional season next year, he intends to meet the team's needs, stating, 'I plan to be prepared so that I can work as either a starter or a reliever.' Takuya Kai joined The Giants this off-season. 'I was happy when he said to me the other day, "Chiharu, I'm counting on you."' He is now working hard in his independent training, looking forward to forming a battery with Kai, something they were unable to do during their time with The Giants.