Japanese Professional Baseball: Roster Changes and Player Departures

Several Japanese professional baseball players are departing their respective teams following the conclusion of the season.

In the Hanshin Tigers organization, outfielder Kan Toyota and outfielder Kairi Shimada have been notified that their contracts will not be renewed for the 2027 season. Additionally, relief pitcher Daury Moretta, who joined the team this season after playing in Major League Baseball, has returned to his home country.

In the Yokohama DeNA BayStars, outfielder Cooper Hummel has also returned to the United States. Hummel, who played 59 games this season, expressed gratitude toward the fans and described Yokohama as a second home.

Meanwhile, the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters announced they will not renew the contract of catcher Koki Matsuoka for the 2027 season.