Nippon-Ham announced on the 23rd pitcher Takumi Yamamoto underwent successful cleaning surgery on his right elbow joint at a hospital in Sapporo. He is expected to be out of action for approximately three months.

Yamamoto has appeared in 15 games this season, with a record of 1 win, 0 losses, and 1 ERA 4.91. He was hit hard in the game against Softbank Hawks on the 20th (at Escon Stadium), giving up 4 runs in one inning, and was removed from the roster on the 21st.

Yamamoto commented, "It's very disappointing to leave the team before the crucial summer season, but I decided to have surgery so that I can throw with all my might on mound again. I am grateful to the team for encouraging me and to everyone who has supported me, and I will come back stronger."