It has been announced that former Lotte Marines manager Masato Yoshii will take over as the new manager of Rakuten Eagles. It is unusual for a manager who led a team in the same league until last season to take on the managerial role of another team so soon after. Furthermore, the fact that the baton was passed from the interim manager to the official new manager mid-season is also an unusual personnel change.

On the CS Fuji TV ONE program "Professional baseball News" aired on the 17th, the commentators shared their views on the start of the new manager Yoshii's tenure.

First, Tsuji Hatsuhiko expressed his expectations, saying, "Now that you've taken on the role, I want you to show your own style. I want you to make use of your past experience and do things the way you think is best." He then offered encouragement, saying, "Don't be afraid of the results, and since you're in this position, I want you to keep your eyes on the top and do your best."

Meanwhile, Hiroki Nomura commented, "There will be difficulties in taking over the team midway through the season, and I'm looking forward to seeing how the team will be built." He added, "Of course, we will be fighting to win the championship this season, but at the same time, we will need to build a team that looks ahead to next year and the year after. I think I will be leading the team while facing various difficulties in terms of player selection and strategy," also mentioning the difficulties of being the new manager.

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