Nippon-Ham’s Remarkable Turnaround: Kiyomiya’s Transfer Rumors Swirl

Kiyomiya has defensive difficulties. A possible trade target would be a team in the Pacific League, which has a designated hitter system. The rumored team is Seibu. The designated hitter is often Takeya Nakamura, but he is a 40-year-old veteran this year, so he is used on a rest day. First base, which Kiyomiya protects, also has no fixed regulars. The hole left by the main gun, Hotaka Yamakawa, cannot be filled, and Kiyomiya, who has the appeal of a one-hitter, is a key reinforcement for Seibu.

The “monster” who hit 111 home runs in high school is now in his seventh year as a pro. There is no more time to spare. What is required is results.