Softbank Hawks announced on the 1st that they have registered pitcher Hokuto as a regular player. The right-hander, who held a press conference at Mizuho PayPay, said, "I'm overjoyed. I think I had a stronger desire than anyone to climb all the way to the top." number will be 43.

Hokuto joined the team last fall as the 8th pick in the developmental draft from Chuo University's semi-hardball baseball club. He was the 116th player to be called out among all 12 teams' draft standings. In the farm league, he has posted a stable record of 2 wins (0 losses) and an ERA of 1.37 in 7 games, including 6 starts. His weapons are his powerful fastball and change-up, which has a unique trajectory. He is expected to make his debut in the 3-game series against Lotte (Mizuho PayPay Dome) starting on the 3rd.

The 22-year-old, who earned a spot on the active roster in his rookie year, reaffirmed his resolve, saying, “I want to become a pitcher who can win.” When asked whom he’d like to face hitter, he named Orix Buffaloes ’s home run batter, saying, “I want to face Mr. Sugimoto, who’s known as ‘Raoh.’”

This marks the fourth player to be promoted to the main roster this season, following Otake, Fujiwara, and Almenta. The number of players on the main roster, which is capped at 70, is now 66.