The Hanshin Tigers announced on the 12th that pitcher Daichi Ishii has expressed his intention to withdraw from the World Baseball Classic (WBC) following an injury. Ishii sustained the injury while covering home plate during a practice match on the 11th, when he was preparing to receive a thrown ball. A subsequent examination at a hospital in Osaka on the 12th revealed a left Achilles tendon injury, though the timeline for his recovery has not been disclosed.

Last season, Ishii established a professional baseball record by achieving 50 consecutive scoreless appearances, significantly contributing to his team's league victory as a key member of the bullpen. His role was expected to be pivotal in the WBC, where he was anticipated to be a cornerstone of the Japan national team's relief pitchers. The news of his withdrawal comes as a blow to both the team and fans who were looking forward to his participation.

Fellow players selected for the national team from Hanshin expressed their sorrow over Ishii's departure. Catcher Seishiro Sakamoto remarked that while he wanted to play alongside Ishii, the player himself must be feeling the most upset about the situation. Outfielder Shota Morishita voiced the desire to carry Ishii’s spirit and work hard in the tournament, while infielder Teruaki Sato expressed his sadness but wished for Ishii's speedy recovery so that they could play together during the regular season later on.