The Dragons announced on the 9th at the team office that they have informed player Ryusei Sato (28) and pitcher Kota Umetsu (28) that they are being released.

Sato joined the Dragons via a cash trade in June of this year. His performance this season included 23 games with a batting average of .197 and 3 RBIs. He was removed from the first-team roster on July 31 and did not play in the first team after that.

“On my first day after transferring, I was in the starting lineup against Orix, and that’s my most memorable moment. I couldn’t achieve the results I wanted in the few months I was here, so I feel frustrated.”

Pitcher Umetsu struggled with his right shoulder condition from this season’s camp. He underwent right shoulder labrum surgery in July and is currently in rehabilitation. He is expected to re-sign on a developmental contract for next season, aiming to return to the registered roster for the 2027 season.

“It’s been about three months since the surgery, and I’m told my recovery is progressing well. I want to work hard to show a more improved version of myself than before the surgery.”

Chunichi Dragons

The Chunichi Dragons are a professional baseball team based in Nagoya, Japan, and are one of the oldest and most storied franchises in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). Founded in 1936, the team has a rich history, winning multiple Japan Series championships, including a memorable title in 2007. They are known for their passionate fan base and play their home games at the Nagoya Dome.

Orix

“Orix” is not a specific place or cultural site, but rather the name of a major Japanese corporation, ORIX Corporation, which provides financial services. Founded in 1964 as Orient Leasing, it has grown into a diversified global company. Therefore, it does not have a physical history as a cultural or historical landmark.