Lotte manager Saburo (50) indicated on the 4th the possibility of using pitcher Yuki Karakawa (37), whose retirement at the end of this season was announced, in the game against the Softbank Hawks (ZOZO) on October 3rd.

A retirement ceremony is scheduled for the same day, and Manager Saburo said, "I'm not sure what form it will take, but well, that's how it will be (regarding his appearance)." Having watched Karakawa since his rookie days, he spoke with deep emotion: "I've been watching him ever since he joined from Narita High School. At first, I was delighted that an incredibly wonderful pitcher had joined, but there were various ups and downs along the way. Then he met Mr. Tadakatsu Kotani and made a comeback. Since he is a junior I was fond of during my playing days, first I want to say 'good job.' There are still games left, so I hope he adjusts himself accordingly for the end."