Softbank Hawks pitcher Osuna will start the season in the minor leagues, it was decided on the 26th. Ahead of the opening game against Nippon-Ham on the 27th (at Mizuho PayPay Stadium), Softbank Hawks manager Kokubo and Nippon-Ham manager Shinjo appeared at a press conference held at the stadium and spoke about their aspirations for the season.

Manager Kokubo also commented on Osuna after the press conference. He was expected to compete with Sugiyama for the closer role this season, but after giving up 4 runs in 8 exhibition games, it was decided that he would start the season in the farm league. In 2023, he agreed to a massive 4-year contract worth approximately 4 billion yen, and the "use as closer" was included in the contract. Manager Kokubo commented, "We didn't have time to finalize how he would be used, or rather, we couldn't. That's all I can say on the field." He added, "Since he's not on the opening day roster, I think someone will have to take on that role," suggesting that Sugiyama, Matsumoto Yu, and others will likely be the ones to close out games.