Shota Abe (34), a pitcher who received a notice of release from the Orix Buffaloes, revealed his determination to continue his playing career on the 14th. With the tryout on the 17th approaching, he checked his condition during live batting practice on the 13th. His velocity reached a maximum of 147 km/h. The right-hander, who lists the NPB as his first choice but is also considering overseas options, vowed to give his all, saying, 'If I can wear a uniform and be allowed to throw on the mound...'

He changed his form to a sidearm style last off-season. Entering his sixth year with his back against the wall, he struggled with a 10.13 ERA over 13 games. Although the club offered him a new position, he decided to take the tryout, saying, "They listened to my selfish request." With the concerns about his lower back gone, he has returned to an overhand throwing style.

He has returned to the same form he used in 2022, when he contributed to becoming the best in Japan by recording excellent results with 22 holds and a 0.61 ERA in 44 games. In the month since receiving the notice, he has fully regained his feel through daily practice. 'I believe this is a chance for them to see how much I can still pitch. I want to challenge myself to the fullest so that I have no regrets.' At 34 years old, he believes in his potential and is putting everything on the line. (Toru Osada)

Shota Abe. Born November 3, 1992, in Osaka Prefecture. 34 years old. While at Sakata Minami High School in Yamagata, he appeared in Koshien during the summer of 2009 in his second year. He went from Seibi University to Nippon Life Insurance and was the runner-up in the 2017 Japan Amateur Baseball Championship. He joined the Orix Buffaloes as the 6th draft pick in 2020. Joining at age 28 made him the oldest rookie in franchise history. His career stats are 4 wins, 6 losses, 4 saves, and 47 holds in 143 games, with an ERA of 2.68. He is 178 cm tall and weighs 80 kg. He is a right-handed pitcher and a left-handed hitter.