"He said he was very sorry." From 66 wins in NPB to a 2-win, 10-loss slump in KBO: "His attitude and personality were both excellent, but" the pro world is cold [Incheon on-site]

*This content was translated by AI.View Original

He repeatedly conveyed his apologies. This is the story of Takeda Shota (33), who is leaving behind only disappointment despite high expectations.

Lee Sung-yong (55), manager of the SSG Landers, met with reporters ahead of the 2026 Shinhan SOL KBO League home game against the NC Dinos on the 7th at Incheon SSG Landers Field and stated, "I removed him from the roster after he pitched yesterday. Watching him pitch, I felt it was his last chance."

He was a veteran who played for 14 seasons in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), recording 66 wins, and even achieved double-digit win totals for two consecutive years in 2015 and 2016. However, after an injury, his skills were not what they used to be. He repeatedly failed with SSG as well and eventually had to pack up and leave.

Nevertheless, he was given a considerable number of opportunities. It was not solely because SSG fell out of the race for the top spots. He was a player who showed an exemplary attitude toward the team and a diligence in constantly studying and preparing, inspiring expectations for his development.

However, moving between the starting rotation and the bullpen, he pitched in 28 games for 98⅓ innings, posting a dismal record of 2 wins and 10 losses with an ERA (ERA) of 7.41.

Manager Lee Sung-yong said, "He talked about his experiences in Korea and said it was harder than he had imagined himself." He added, "'To be honest, I respect everything about you except your performance.' I told him that from his work ethic to the preparation process, he showed many things for the younger players to emulate, so I was grateful. But I also asked if he didn't feel there were many disappointing aspects of his performance. In response, he said he was very sorry and that he had felt a lot himself, sharing various thoughts."

He could not hide his sense of apology until the very end. Manager Lee stated, "While he may be disappointed in himself, he frequently expressed how much he was sorry." He added, "He said he learned a lot this time and came to realize that if his speed does not improve, it will not be easy to continue his playing career."

Takeda is scheduled to say his final goodbyes to the players. SSG, too, must now look toward next season, setting aside their regrets. Manager Lee said, "The Asian quota slot is quite important. The front office will continue to deliberate on it." He added, "Takeda himself said that if given another opportunity, he would like to try again."

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*This content was translated by AI.View Original