Softbank Hawks manager Hiroki Kokubo revealed on the 12th that he has injured his right shoulder and requires surgery. He visited the farm facilities in Chikugo City, Fukuoka, to meet with second-team manager Kazumi Saito and other coaches regarding next February's spring training. He stated, 'I will be having surgery soon. I'm telling you in advance so you won't be surprised if I show up in a cast.'

A few days ago, he sustained an injury in his private life and was diagnosed with a 'ruptured rotator cuff (supraspinatus muscle) of the right shoulder joint.' Although he did not appear to have any abnormalities in his plain clothes that day, he said with a wry smile, 'It is a complete rupture. I cannot raise my arm. I am glad I am no longer an active player.' He will be busy with events such as the fan festival and the victory parade throughout November. He plans to undergo surgery in December and will head to Hawaii for the victory trip with his arm in a sling.

An accident occurred ahead of the team's alumni game to be held on the 23rd. He was serving as the manager for 'Manager Oh's Legend Team' and intended to take an at-bat himself, but expressed his regret, saying, 'I had prepared myself for it, but unfortunately...' The brace is expected to be removed by mid-January, and he will be in uniform for the February training camp. 'It is my 10th surgery since my playing days, so I am fine. I have finally reached double digits,' he said self-deprecatingly.