Jackson Rutledge, pitcher recently joined the SoftBank Hawks from Softbank Hawks' Triple-A affiliate, held an introductory press conference at Mizuho PayPay Dome on the 13th. number will be "14," and his annual salary is $450,000 (estimated at 70 million yen). The 203cm tall right-hander said with a bright expression, "I'm very excited. It was a long journey from America, but I arrived in Japan yesterday and was able to walk around the city and observe it little by little, and I thought it was a very beautiful city. I'm happy to be able to experience this day as a member of Softbank Hawks."

Rutledge was also selected first overall (17th overall) by the Nationals in the 2019 MLB draft. He made his major league debut with the Nationals in 2023. He has appeared in 71 MLB games, with a record of 5 wins and 3 losses and ERA 6.29. This season, he was traded to the Phillies mid-season. Last season, he appeared in 63 games as reliever, but he is expected to be a starter for Softbank Hawks. General Manager Mikasa Sugihiko also commented, "Basically, we evaluate him as having the aptitude to be a starter." The right-hander also said, "I have thrown live batting practice of up to 70-75 pitches," indicating he is fully prepared.

This brings the team's roster to a maximum of 70 players, the maximum allowed for a registered player.