Akio Saito, who appeared on "Pro baseball News 2026" broadcast on Fuji TV ONE on the 21st, named Sou Sato as a key player for Seibu Lions pitcher staff going forward.

Akio Saito explained the reason, saying, "He doesn't have speed, but he uses the flexibility of his body, the swing of his arm, and the angle to change the angle of his breaking ball, mainly fastball and slider, to closer the batters with changes of pace. When the starting pitcher is struggling, he can skillfully get past the blazing fastballs of Kosei Takahashi and Taira, and he can dazzle the batters with his pitching, so I've named him as a key player."

Sou Sato joined the team as the 4th pick in the 2024 developmental draft, but earned a spot on the main roster at the end of April this season, his second year with the team. In his professional debut on May 1st against the Lotte Marines, pitcher 7 runs innings closer earn win, and so far this season he has pitched 16 2/3 innings in 3 games, with a record of 1 win and ERA of 3.24. He is scheduled to start in the game against Orix Buffaloes at 2 PM.

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