On the 1st, Seibu announced that outfielder Yuji Kaneko (34) will retire at the end of this season.

Kaneko sent a message to fans through the team, saying, “I wanted to show the fans as many times as possible that I was playing at the Belluna Dome, so I worked hard, but I am sorry that I wasn’t able to make it happen. The 12 years I spent with the Lions were a dreamlike and enjoyable time. Thank you for all the support you have shown me since joining the team. I will never forget the support from all the fans.”

He joined Seibu after being selected third in the 2012 draft. Since then, he has played for the Lions for 12 years, and the nickname “Speedster” Kaneko has supported the team with his running, offense and defense, winning the stolen base title twice.

General Manager and Acting Manager Watanabe Hisanobu commented, “Kaneko is a player who has been with the Lions his whole life. His defense is first-rate, he has good feet, and his flashy plays that captivate the fans were impressive. He also made some electrifying fine plays, and I think he worked hard for the team,” and sent words of appreciation to Kaneko, who continued to play for Seibu.