Stanford University infielder Rintaro Sasaki (21), who was the first overall pick by Softbank Hawks in last fall's draft and is also a candidate for the MLB draft on July 11th and 12th (July 12th and 13th Japan time), returned to Japan from the United States on the 29th and spoke about his current thoughts on his future career path. He said he is "grateful to have three options," including staying at university, and revealed that he plans to meet with Softbank Hawks in Fukuoka for two days starting July 1st.

The press conference held inside Haneda Airport attracted 68 reporters from 38 media outlets, demonstrating the high level of interest in the event. "I would like to answer questions about my current feelings with sincerity and integrity," he said, looking straight ahead, showing no signs of fatigue from his long journey. Wearing a black polo shirt from his university, he answered questions clearly and concisely for about 20 minutes.

At Hanamaki Higashi High School (Iwate Prefecture), he hit a total of 140 Home Run in high school, and he steadily improved during his two seasons in the United States. This season, he played in 54 games and hit 16 Home Run, 9 more than last season. On the 23rd of this month (24th Japan time), he participated in the "Draft Combine," where MLB draft prospects gather. He hit a home run of approximately 140 meters, the second longest overall, and his batted ball speed of approximately 185.7 km/h was the fastest.

The MLB's official website predicts he will be drafted in the 7th to 12th round. If he is drafted high, there is a high possibility that he will challenge the majors without playing in NPB, while if he is drafted lower, joining Softbank Hawks becomes a realistic possibility. There are about two weeks until the fateful day. There is also only about a month left until the negotiation deadline with Softbank Hawks at the end of July. After the meeting in Fukuoka, he will return to his hometown of Iwate and will talk with his family and decide on a direction to some extent, and will also take time to consult with his father, Hiroshi (50), the coach of Hanamaki Higashi High School.

"I'll see my next step within a month. Of course there's pressure, but I'm even more excited," said Rintaro. All eyes are on the monstrous slugger's decision. (Koichiro Shimao)

〇…There is a possibility that Rintaro will attend Softbank Hawks vs. Seibu Lions game on the 30th (Tokyo Dome) in person. "Not at this stage. It's possible, but there have been no discussions about it yet," he emphasized, highlighting that it is still undecided. However, he is scheduled to be in Tokyo, so the timing is possible. The event on that day will be held as "Hawks Festival SUMMER BOOST 2026," and not only Chairman Sadaharu Oh, but also owner Masayoshi Son may rush to the stadium if their schedules allow.

◆Rintaro's upcoming schedule (Japan time)

▽Meeting with Softbank Hawks in Fukuoka on July 1st and 2nd.

▽MLB Draft (Philadelphia) on the 12th and 13th. The first day will cover up to the 4th round. The 5th round and beyond will be on the 13th.

▽The deadline for negotiations with Softbank Hawks is the 31st.