Rakuten Eagles announced on March 11 that Shoma Fujihira pitcher (27) has been called up to the squad for the sixth World Baseball Classic (WBC) in March. Seibu Lions Kaima Taira pitcher (26), who had been selected as a member, withdrew due to the influence of "left calf muscle strain", and Fujihira, the same relief right-hander, was selected as a substitute player. Fujihira said through the club, "I am honored to be chosen, and I want to do my best in the position I have been entrusted with. I will do my best to contribute to the win of Samurai Japan."

Last season, Fujihira pitched in a career-high 62 games as a relief pitcher, posting impressive results of 2 wins, 2 losses, 12 saves, 21 hold, and ERA of 2.11. Armed with a fastball exceeding 150 km/h and a sharp fork, he was unrivaled in the second half of the season, pitching 29 consecutive games without allowing runs.

He also has a track record on the international stage. He was selected for the first time to the Japanese national team's top team at the Premier 12 in the fall of 2012, ERA of 0.00, and was in full swing. He made a major contribution to the team's runner-up finish, and Samurai Japan manager Ibata praised his passionate pitch style, earning him his deep trust. Last year, he was selected as a member of the team for the warm-up match against the South Korean national team (Tokyo Dome). This was his second consecutive year representing Japan. He got married last offseason, and with his sights set on competing in the WBC, he has been making thorough preparations, including practicing with the ball used in the WBC.

Taira's departure will be a blow as he was expected to be a setup man and closer for this year's Samurai Japan team, but Fujihira also has plenty of ability. This man, brimming with fighting spirit, will swing his arms to win the championship again.

◆Fujihira Shoma: Born September 21, 1998 in Chiba Prefecture. 27 years old. Played Koshien in the summer of his third year at Yokohama High School. Joined Rakuten Eagles as the first pick in the 2016 draft. Became a full-time relief pitcher in 2024. In last fall's Premier 12, he made six appearances with an ERA of 0.00. In nine years as a professional, he has made 154 appearances with a record of 12 wins and 19 losses, 41 hold, and 13 saves. ERA of 3.48. He is 185 cm tall and weighs 85 kg. He throws and bats right-handed.