Rakuten Eagles outfielder Naoki Sato who had been sidelined due to poor physical condition, rejoined the first team on the 30th.

Sato, who joined the team from Softbank Hawks through the active player draft, played in 46 games this season, batting .274 with 6 Home Run and 17 RBI. He supported the team with his powerful hitting and repeated good defensive plays, but was removed from the roster on the 2nd due to poor physical condition. He will return to the first team for the second half of the season, which starts on the 31st. "I'll do my best. (The condition of the injured area) has improved," he nodded.

The team has shown signs of improvement since manager Yoshii took over, with a record of 13 wins and 14 losses. Even while he was out, he kept a close eye on the first team's games. "I think Rakuten Eagles is gradually moving in the right direction. I want to join them and help them win even more," he said with determination.

During his adjustment period at the farm team, he cut his hair short. "I thought I'd try cutting it a little shorter. After I cut it, my bangs were even and it looked cute, so I grew a beard," he said, laughing and touching his beard. "It's a little too cute, so I added a beard to balance it out. If it doesn't help me hit, I'll shave it off." He joked, expressing his hopes for success with his new style.

Currently, the regular outfield positions are filled by three players: McCusker, Tatsumi, and Nakajima. If Sato returns, it will not only add depth to outfield but also broaden the range of starting line-up options, including the possibility of using McCusker as a designated hitter.

The team is currently in last place with a deficit of 18 games. Starting on the 31st, they will face Softbank Hawks in a three-game series at home.