[Orix] Shuhei Fukuda, who is not in next season’s plans, will continue playing. “I want to play on the NPB stage. I will continue practicing.” | Pacific League

[Orix] Shuhei Fukuda, who is not in the plans for next season, will continue playing. “I want to play on the NPB stage. I will continue practicing.”

Sports Hochi

2025.10.14(火) 04:00

On the 13th, outfielder Shuhei Fukuda (33), who is not included in Orix Buffaloes’ plans for next season, revealed his determination to continue playing. After many discussions with the team, he volunteered to continue playing until the end of the season. After the team’s defeat in the CS, he returned to Osaka from the Phoenix League in Miyazaki and spoke frankly about his feelings.

“I’m grateful to the team for accepting my selfishness.” This season, his eighth year as a professional, he had a batting average of .167 in 23 games. “If there’s even a 1% chance I can become a valuable player this year, I want to do my best,” he said, expressing his desire to go to Miyazaki. While the team showed understanding for his enthusiasm, the season ended on the 12th. Although his wish was not granted, he looked forward, saying, “I want to play on the NPB stage, and I will continue practicing.”

After being removed from the active roster on August 15th, he had a batting average of .355 in 30 games in Western League. He emphasized that “a new sense has emerged.” He contributed to the team’s consecutive league championships in 2021 and 2022, mainly as the leadoff hitter and center fielder. As a home-grown player, he was also very popular with fans. The 33-year-old showed his determination to rise up even from the development slots, saying, “If I’m given the chance,” and is walking the path he believes in. (Osada Toru)

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