Lotte pitcher Yuki Karakawa (37) held a retirement press conference at his home stadium, ZOZO, on the 8th. The right-hander, who spent his entire 19-year career with Lotte, sat on the podium in a suit and spoke about his feelings for approximately 20 minutes.

He reportedly entered this season, his 19th, with a 'strong sense of determination.' However, as he spent his days continuing to make adjustments in the farm league, his feelings gradually leaned toward retirement. After inviting his family to a minor league game in August, he reached the major decision to retire at the end of this season.

Reflecting on his playing career, during which he recorded a career-high 12 wins in 2011 and a total of 82 wins, he said, 'I wasn't able to be active at all. I couldn't make a big flower bloom, but the fans added color to that flower. I am grateful.' A retirement ceremony will be held on October 3rd during the game against the Softbank Hawks at ZOZO Marine Stadium.

Yuki Karakawa: Born July 5, 1989, in Narita City, Chiba. 37 years old. At Narita High School, he appeared in the Spring Koshien in 2006 and 2007. He joined Lotte as a first-round pick in the 2007 high school draft. He served as a member of the starting rotation and contributed significantly, including a career-high 12 wins in 2011. In 350 total games, he has 82 wins, 78 losses, 64 holds, and a 3.71 ERA. This season, he has 0 wins and 1 loss in 1 game with a 7.20 ERA. 181 cm, 90 kg. Right-handed pitcher and hitter. His estimated salary for this season is 44 million yen.