This project looks back on the 2026 season of the Pacific League warriors. Although they finished at the bottom of the league for the first time in eight years this season, Tohoku Rakuten Eagles saw Manager Masato Yoshii take command midway through the season to work on medium- to long-term team reforms. This time, we will look back on the performance of the fourth-year right-handed pitcher, Kosei Shoji.

The first opening day pitcher in four years. In September, he achieved his first complete game and shutout game win.

In his fourth professional season, Shoji pitcher played a major role in his first opening pitcher. In the opening game (March 27, against Orix Buffaloes), he played a key role with 105 pitches over 8 innings, 4 hit no walks Hit by Pitch, 9 strike out no runs, and then started strong with three consecutive wins to start the season.

However, from May onward, his form declined as he gave up more Home Run, and he went through a tough period without wins. Even so, he kept swinging his arm in the first team without a long absence, maintaining a high strike out rate. On July 18, against Saitama Seibu Lions, he earned his first win in about two months with 8 strike out 2 runs in the 7th inning, gradually regaining his usual pitch.

September was especially spectacular. On the 16th, against Chiba Lotte Marines, he threw 125 pitches, 6 hit, no outs Walk 7 strike out no runs, and recorded his first complete game shutout game win. He reached the required innings pitched for the first time. In September, he started a total of 5 games. He pitched 36 innings with a league-leading 41 strike out, 3 wins (1 shutout game), and a monthly ERA of 1.00, earning his first 'Daiki Life Monthly MVP Award.'

This season, Shoji pitcher recorded a personal best of 171 strike out, winning the most strike out pitcher award, 12 ahead of second place. It was a joyful first championship win. In addition, Shoji pitcher had a breakthrough year, setting career highs in win numbers, innings pitched, and strike out rate, climbing the ladder to become the ace on the right. Next season, I'm looking forward to seeing him thrive as the core of the starter lineup alongside Takahisa Hayakawa​ ​pitcher and Tatsuki Koja pitcher.

◇ Shoji pitcher 2026 Stats
25 games, 9 wins, 9 losses, 159 innings pitched 171 strike out, ERA 3.45 WHIP 1.16