Naoya Masuda reaches 250 saves for Chiba Lotte Marines

Pitcher Naoya Masuda of the Chiba Lotte Marines recorded his 250th career save on August 4, becoming the fifth reliever in Nippon Professional Baseball history to reach the milestone. In the ninth inning of a 2‑run lead against the Seibu Lions, Masuda retired three batters on eight pitches, securing the save.

Masuda, 36, reflected on the achievement, saying he felt “relieved” after the game. He later noted he had trouble sleeping the night before, despite receiving numerous congratulatory messages and flowers from fellow players and managers. Looking ahead, he set a personal goal of reaching 800 career appearances, adding that he hopes to pitch around 50 games per season.

The 250‑save mark places Masuda among an elite group of Japanese closers, joining four others who have reached the figure. His career totals now include 795 games, 250 saves, 176 holds and a 2.97 ERA, all earned while remaining exclusively with the Marines.