[Rakuten Eagles] First-round draft pick, right-handed pitcher Sota Fujiwara, joins the first team; likely to be used as a reliever; currently adjusting for relief appearances since late May | Pacific League

[Rakuten Eagles] First-round draft pick, right-handed pitcher Sota Fujiwara, joins the first team. He is likely to be used as a reliever. He has been adjusting to relief pitching since late May.

Sports Hochi

June 6, 2026 11:13

◆Nippon Life Interleague Series 2026 Hanshin Tigers vs. Rakuten Eagles (June 6th, Koshien)

Rakuten Eagles 's first-round draft pick, pitcher Sota Fujiwara (22) from Hanazono University, joined the first team on the 6th.

The rookie right-hander, who was in the opening day rotation, appeared in three games for the first team, going 0-2 ERA 6.75. He was removed from the active roster on April 17. In the farm league, he appeared in nine games, going 2-0 ERA 2.22. Since late May, he had been used primarily as a relief pitcher.