Stanford University infielder Rintaro Sasaki, who was the first overall pick by Softbank Hawks in last fall's draft and is also a candidate for the MLB draft on the 11th and 12th (12th and 13th Japan time), spoke to reporters at Mizuho PayPay Dome on the 1st. hitter currently has three options: to challenge himself in MLB if drafted, to join Softbank Hawks, or to stay at university. On this day, after meeting with the team in Fukuoka City at noon, he visited the home stadium and toured the facilities. He was also offered number 1 jersey and expressed his gratitude, saying, "I'm overwhelmed with emotion. It's been a very meaningful day. I learned a lot today, including a presentation about the facilities and the history of The Hawks. It's like a dream place, a wonderful environment. If I'm given the opportunity, I'm confident that I can have a fulfilling baseball career."

When Sasaki spoke to reporters at Haneda Airport after returning to Japan on the 29th, he described his impression of Softbank Hawks, saying, "There are aspects that match my playing style. My first impression is that they are a truly wonderful team," and it seems that his expectations were met. He received video messages from team chairman Sadaharu Oh and owner Masayoshi Son, who extended a warm welcome, saying, "We'll be waiting for you in Fukuoka." Sasaki bowed his head and said, "I've had the opportunity to speak with owner Masayoshi Son once, and he is the person I respect the most in my own life. He offered words of encouragement and said that he hoped I would have the chance to join the team if the opportunity arose. I am truly filled with gratitude for everything that was prepared for me today and for the warm welcome."

The deadline for negotiations with Softbank Hawks is July 31st, so the time for a decision is fast approaching. "I had the opportunity to greet Manager Kokubo and Second Team Manager Saito. I also greeted Chairman Oh earlier, and it was a wonderful time," he said with a satisfied expression. He will stay in Fukuoka on the 2nd as well and plans to continue touring the team's facilities.