Hiroki Nomura, who appeared on "Pro baseball News 2026" broadcast on Fuji TV ONE on the 16th, commented on Softbank Hawks 's Haru Matsumoto.

Nomura said, "He's pitcher I'd like to see in the rotation for the entire season," and added, "He can throw low in crucial situations, and because he can consistently throw low, fastball becomes more effective. slider was superb. He can pitch like that, so I think it's safe to say he's a sure thing."

In his third professional season last year, Haru Matsumoto pitched 91 1/3 innings in 29 games, both as a starter and reliever, recording 6 wins, 6 losses, 2 hold, ERA of 2.76. This season, he aims to make the opening day rotation, and so far in the preseason games, he has started two games against Iai and has ERA of 1.69.

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