Shunsuke Iwai released by SoftBank Hawks

The Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks have notified pitcher Shunsuke Iwai that they will not renew his contract for the upcoming season. Iwai, a right-handed pitcher drafted in the second round in 2023 from Meijo University, has shown significant potential despite limited opportunities in the first team.

While he appeared in only five games for the first team this season with a 0.00 ERA, his performance in the minor leagues was dominant. In 16 farm league appearances, he maintained a 1.53 ERA, an 11.72 strikeout rate, and a 0.68 WHIP. His repertoire includes a fastball reaching up to 156 km/h, along with effective forkballs and sliders.

Following the decision, Iwai expressed his intention to continue playing professional baseball, stating that he is healthy and ready to continue his career. He is expected to be offered a developmental contract.