Softbank Hawks has removed Almenta from their active roster. The 21-year-old left-hander, a product of their farm system, made his debut and first start in the game The Giants on the 27th (Tokyo Dome), but was knocked out in the middle of the third inning after giving up five runs. Stewart was added to the roster in his place and started in the game against The Giants on the 28th. pitcher coach Kurano explained that the measure was planned, saying, "There is a limit to the number of foreign players, so this is a planned removal."