Yomiuri Giants release nine developmental players

The Yomiuri Giants announced on September 30 that they will not renew the contracts of nine developmental players for the upcoming season.

Among those released is Hayate Matsui, a pitcher who made history as the first developmental draft pick to earn a victory in his professional debut during the 2023 season. Despite being part of the first-team roster at the start of 2024, he was moved to a developmental contract and was unable to return to the top squad this year.

Other notable players include Yugo Bando, who recorded five wins in the farm league this season but failed to appear in a first-team game, and Yusefu Yoshimura, a 21-year-old left-handed pitcher known for his unique tornado delivery. Yoshimura, who previously represented Japan in the U-18 World Cup, expressed his intention to carefully consider his future and whether to continue his professional career.