[Nippon-Ham] Behind the scenes of the surprise trade Torai Fushimi Toratake... Fushimi's desire for playing time and the team's aim to strengthen its left-handed reliever are taking shape | Pacific League

[Nippon-Ham] Behind the scenes of the surprise trade Torai Fushimi Toratake… Fushimi’s desire for playing time and the team’s aim to strengthen their left-handed reliever are coming to fruition

Sports Hochi

2025.11.14(金) 18:51

伏見（左）と島本

On the 14th, Nippon-Ham acquired Hanshin Tigers Shimamoto Torai Fushimi in exchange for catcher Toratake Fushimi. Behind the surprise trade was a shared desire between Fushimi, who wanted playing time, and the team, who wanted to strengthen their left-handed reliever pitcher.

Nippon-Ham Reinforcing the left reliever pitcher was a major theme this offseason for the Kono made the most appearances reliever in left this season with 32 games, followed by Miyanishi at 40 with 31. In the second half of the season, Uehara emerged as a set-up man, ERA 1.11 in 27 games, but none of the left pitcher supported the first team bullpen for the full season. From the end of the season to the CS, Yamazaki, a starter, was reassigned reliever; including Hori, who made two starts, there were only five left reliever pitchers who made appearances pitcher in the first team, and left pitcher were lacking. Expectations are high for Shimamoto, who has pitched in a total of 204 games.

Hanshin Tigers Fushimi, who will be moving to the New York Yankees, appeared in 64 games this season, hitting .241 with a .2 Home Run. fielder As the oldest player, he was trusted by the team pitcher and had a strong presence on the team. However, with the growth of young catcher players such as Tamiya and Shindo, as well as the appointment of Guji, a utility outfield player who could play inside catcher the park, he was unable to increase his opportunities to play. During the season, he said, “If I don’t play in a game…” He was hungry for opportunities to play.

Through the team, Fushimi said, “I believe that the reason I was able to play comfortably for the three years since joining the team as a free agent was because of the support of the team. It was a fond memory, and a valuable experience for the rest of my baseball career. I would also like to thank all the fans for supporting me through good times and bad, and for pushing me forward many times when I felt like giving up. I am truly grateful. I would be happy if you continue to support me in the future,” and vowed to do well in his new home.