The Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters would like to announce that seven players renewed their contracts today, December 6th (Friday).

Contract renewal

Tamai Hiroto, Kono Ryusei, Tanaka Masayoshi, Kato Takayuki, Kitayama Koki, Kiyomiya Kotaro, Manami Nakamasa

Player comments

Tamai (pitcher)

"This year, I was injured and couldn't make it to the first team even once during spring training, which was very frustrating. It was a year where I felt happy but also frustrated watching the younger players pitch in tense situations. Now my body is in perfect condition, and I feel good in the bullpen. Next year, I want to aim for a career high of 50 games and holds as a relief pitcher. I will work hard to pitch in as many games as possible so that I can be a part of the celebration when we win the championship."

Pitcher Kono

"This season was a good one because we were able to play in the Climax Series with Escon, but we couldn't win the championship in the end, so I want to get revenge next year. Personally, this season I was able to continue the foundation I built as a reliever last year. However, I think I can still improve in terms of speed, breaking balls, and everything else, so I hope to make my presence felt next year so that my name will be called on in important situations. My goal for next year is to contribute more to the team and pitch in 60 games."

Masashi Tanaka (pitcher)

"This year I caused a lot of trouble for the team, and I also identified many areas for improvement. I was nominated by the manager at F FES, but once the season started, it was a level playing field. Everyone is throwing pitches that could be used anywhere. I feel I need to throw pitches that allow the manager to send me to the mound with confidence. If it means winning the league championship and becoming the best in Japan, I want to pitch in any situation and in any number of games, and I want to become a pitcher worthy of a championship team."

Takashi Kato (pitcher)

"This year was a good season both personally and for the team. I wanted to win double-digit games, so I'm glad I achieved that. However, there were still areas for improvement, such as inconsistent performance and many losses. During the offseason, I want to review old footage to stabilize my pitching form and address my weaknesses. I want to win double-digit games again next year, and I also want to pitch longer innings to reduce the burden on the relief pitchers."

Kitayama (pitcher)

"This year, I was able to make the opening day rotation and gain experience pitching in the Climax Series and international tournaments. However, I suffered an injury midway through the season, so I'd like to improve next year by receiving advice on recovery and nutrition. My stats are improving, so I want to keep refining them and do my best to raise my level. Next year, I'm aiming for a league championship and the Japan Series title, and I want to be a core piece in achieving that."

Kiyomiya

"At the beginning of this season, I wasn't much help to the team, but I think I was able to contribute a little in the second half. The team finished in second place, and we made it to the Climax Series in Escon. This season, I was able to do some things that I couldn't do before. Next season, I want to play in every game and hit 30 home runs. Because we finished in second place this year, I understand the frustration of that, so next year I want to do everything I can to win the championship."

Manami

"This year wasn't a season I was entirely satisfied with, and there were some tough times, but overall I think it was a good season because I was able to experience things I'd never experienced before. I learned a lot, both technically and mentally, from my slump, and it was a year that will serve me well in the future. For next season, I want to improve my batting and running ability, and bring out more of my physical potential. I believe that if I keep playing in games, the numbers will naturally follow, so my goal for next season is to play in every game."