On March 11, the Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) and NPB Enterprise announced that Seibu Lions pitcher Kaima Tsuruga has withdrawn from the World Baseball Classic (WBC) due to a left calf strain. The injury prevents Tsuruga from participating in the international tournament, which is set to commence next month. This withdrawal is disappointing for the team and fans who were looking forward to his contribution to the Japanese national team.

In light of Tsuruga's withdrawal, the NPB has decided to bring in Rakuten Golden Eagles pitcher Shoma Tohira as a replacement. Tohira, 27, has been making a name for himself since his initial selection for the national team for the Premier 12 international tournament in November 2024, where he excelled by pitching six scoreless innings across six games. This new opportunity in the WBC will further enhance his experience on the international stage.

Tohira's participation marks his first time in the World Baseball Classic, and he has been assigned the number 46 for the tournament. As he steps into the role, both he and the team will aim to make a significant impact despite the recent injury setback affecting their squad.