Yuma So considers free agency options after 12 years with Orix Buffaloes

Orix Buffaloes third baseman Yuma So is weighing his options regarding domestic free agency rights, which were officially announced by the NPB on October 19. After 12 years with the organization, So expressed deep gratitude toward the team that drafted him in 2014, noting his strong attachment to the club.

Despite his history with Orix, including contributing to three consecutive league championships and winning multiple Golden Glove and Best Nine awards, So is focused on finding the path that best allows for his continued professional growth. He cited the physical realities of aging and the desire to maximize his remaining years of peak performance as key factors in his deliberation.

During the 2024 season, So achieved career highs in home runs (14) and RBIs (65), demonstrating a renewed commitment to his training and hitting mechanics. He emphasized that regardless of whether he remains with Orix or exercises his free agency rights, he intends to take full responsibility for his decision and continue his personal development as a player.