Softbank Hawks Hsu Jo-Hsi pitcher Xu Ruoxi threw in bullpen pitch with catcher for the first time since surgery on the 25th at the team's farm facility in Chikugo City, Fukuoka. He underwent back surgery in mid-July and is currently undergoing rehabilitation. It was expected to take two to three months for him to return to competition, but he is recovering at an astonishing speed.

Putting on the uniform with number 18, he threw 30 pitches, focusing on fastballs while mixing in change-ups and sliders. He said he has been able to move without any discomfort in his lower back since the surgery, and even at an effort level of "about 60 to 70 percent," his pitches had plenty of momentum.

On the 24th, Shinji Kurano, the pitcher chief coach and head coordinator, stated clearly, "I think he can return to game action within September." In addition to the end of the season, the postseason will also begin in mid-October. Aiming for a third consecutive league title and a second consecutive Japan Series championship, Xu showed his determination, saying, "Of course, I plan to aim for a return during the season, and while it depends on my pitching condition, if possible, I want to pitch in both (the regular season and the postseason)."