Hiroki Nomura and Kenichi Tanizawa, who appeared on "Professional baseball News 2026" broadcast on Fuji TV ONE on the 23rd, mentioned Rakuten Eagles 's Naoki Sato.

Sato played in a career-high 104 games for Softbank Hawks last season, batting .239 with 5 Home Run, 18 RBI, and 10 stolen base bases, but was drafted by Rakuten Eagles, where he immediately made an impression, recording multiple hit in practice games against Hiroshima and Lotte.

Nomura said, "He's a player who played in that many games (104) for Softbank Hawks. Naturally he has a track record, so when he went to a new place and immediately got results, I think he was relieved and at the same time, it was a game where he was able to achieve both."

On the other hand, Tanizawa expressed his hopes, saying, "His batting average is low, but if he can become a batter who can hit around .280, he'll be a valuable asset."

☆ Cooperation: Fuji TV ONE "Professional baseball News 2026"