[2026 Romance Roundup] Seiji Kobayashi’s New Love: The Girlfriend Who Helped Power His Return to the First Team

〈As a special midsummer feature, we revisit all the romance sightings involving major celebrities that FRIDAY reported during the first half of 2026!〉

〈Let’s look back at FRIDAY’s May 15/22, 2026 issue, which reported on Yomiuri Giants player Seiji Kobayashi (37) and his new girlfriend.〉

Back on the field with a new partner by his side

One afternoon in late March, as the professional baseball season was getting underway, Seiji Kobayashi (37) of the Yomiuri Giants was spotted at Hakone Shrine in Kanagawa Prefecture, a place known as one of the Kanto region’s foremost spiritual power spots. By his side was a slender, beautiful woman with brown hair who resembled Akemi Darenogare, along with a fluffy-haired dog. Together, they made for a picture-perfect scene of happiness.

“The two met through a mutual acquaintance and have been dating for about nine months. She is an office worker in her 20s, and apparently they are already living together with marriage in mind.

Recently, Kobayashi left for a road trip to Osaka while setting the air conditioner to 30°C despite their pet dog being at home, which made his girlfriend furious. They unfollowed each other on social media, prompting rumors of a breakup, but despite everything, they’re still getting along well,” said a male acquaintance of Kobayashi.

Kobayashi is still active with the first team. With his new partner by his side, fans will be hoping for even greater success ahead.

From the August 21/28, 2026 combined issue of “FRIDAY”