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Hiroshima Toyo Carp release four players, including Kaito Kozono
The Hiroshima Toyo Carp have announced that they will not renew the contracts of four players for the upcoming season: infielder Kaito Kozono, infielder Masaya Yano, infielder Seita Maekawa, and outfielder Shunsuke Tamura.
The decision regarding Kaito Kozono has drawn significant attention due to his recent achievements, including winning the Central League batting title and highest on-base percentage last season, as well as his participation in the World Baseball Classic (WBC) with the Japanese national team.
Following reports linking Kozono to allegations involving etomidate, a substance often referred to as ‘zombie tobacco,’ Kozono issued a denial on Instagram, stating, ‘I have not been involved in the past or present, and there are no facts of any illegal activity.’
Separately, the Seibu Lions announced they would not be renewing contracts for pitcher Sinclair and outfielder Koichi Okumura.
Entities
Hiroshima Toyo Carp · Kaito Kozono · Masaya Yano · Seita Maekawa · Shunsuke Tamura
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 2 SOURCES] The Hiroshima Toyo Carp notified infielder Kaito Kozono, infielder Masaya Yano, infielder Seita Maekawa, and outfielder Shunsuke Tamura that they will not be offered contracts for the next season. full-count.jp · hochi.news
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Kaito Kozono denied allegations regarding involvement with etomidate, stating on Instagram that he has had no involvement in any illegal activities. full-count.jp
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Kaito Kozono won the Central League batting title and highest on-base percentage last season. full-count.jp