Topic
3 articles
Masanori Ishikawa, the 46-year-old pitcher for the Yakult Swallows, will retire after the 2026 season. As the oldest active NPB player, his career spans over two decades with the same team.
Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) has decided to adopt the PitchCom wireless signaling system starting next season, with all 12 teams informed. The system replaces hand signals, reduces sign-stealing risk, and speeds up play, following its use in MLB since 2022.
Veteran reliever Yoshihisa Hirano of the Orix Buffaloes will retire after the 2026 season, ending a 21-year career that included stints in MLB with the Arizona Diamondbacks. The 42-year-old pitcher has been a key figure in the team's bullpen and will be honored before the season concludes.
