On the 19th, Seibu Lions announced that they will be sending three players who are currently under contract as development pitcher for the 2026 season—pitcher Kyazze Fred Isabirye Musa Azed from Uganda, and outfielder Carlos Tovar from Slovenia—to BC Shinano. This move is being implemented based on the "Saitama Seibu Lions Overseas Strategy" formulated in November of last year, and the dispatch period is scheduled from March 22nd until the end of the league's season.

The aim of this dispatch is to encourage players' growth through practical experience by allowing them to participate in many games in an environment suited to their skill level. Furthermore, it aims to deepen cooperation with independent league teams, including those in the Route Inn BC League, and contribute to the overall development baseball in the future.

In addition, Daniel Yonemura, an international associate, will be dispatched at the same time with the aim of developing and supporting foreign players.