◆ Pacific League League: Lotte vs. Orix Buffaloes (ZOZO Marine Stadium)

On the 9th, Orix Buffaloes officially announced that pitcher and pitcher coach Yoshihisa Hirano will retire at the end of this season. He joined the team in 2005 as a draft pick from Kyoto Sangyo University and played Orix Buffaloes for 18 years. He also played in Major League Baseball, and achieved the unprecedented feat of becoming the first player in history to clear 250 saves and 200 hold in his 21-year career in Japan and the US (258 saves, 205 hold).

GM Junichi Fukura began by saying, "All I can say now is, 'Thank you for your hard work,' and 'Thank you for everything so far,'" showing his respect for the legendary closer's decision. "I think he was the biggest asset to the team. Even after returning (from the majors), he was a great role model for the younger players, and he worked very hard for the team," he said, expressing his gratitude.

In 2016 and 2017, they were in a manager-player relationship. After returning to Japan in 2021, he contributed to the team's three consecutive championships, and he reflected, "The best thing was that he went over there (to the US) and then came back to us."

Regarding his role in the coming seasons, he emphasized, "That's something to consider for the future, but all I can say is that I will fully support him." He also stated that a retirement ceremony would be held, saying, "Of course, he is such a valuable contributor."