Seita Maekawa Vows to Work Toward an NPB Return After Carp Release: “I Want to Play Baseball Again”

Hiroshima Carp infielder Seita Maekawa, 23, spoke to reporters after being informed that the club would not offer him a contract for the 2027 season.

Maekawa said the club explained the decision in terms of its relationship of trust with him.

“I was told that we could no longer maintain a relationship of trust.”

The decision was difficult for Maekawa to accept, but he said he also understood that he needed to take responsibility for his own actions.

“I feel like there will be regrets. I believe I have to take responsibility for myself, so I want to accept it.”

Maekawa had also been involved in the wider controversy that emerged during the season. When asked how he viewed the situation again following the recent developments, he said he could only accept what had happened and focus on rebuilding trust through his future actions.

“I can only accept what has come to light. From here on, I want to be careful about my actions and work to regain people's trust in a different way.”

He also addressed the fans who had supported him throughout his career.

“The support and voices of the fans really gave me strength. I feel truly sorry that, in the end, it has turned into a situation where I feel like I betrayed them.”

Despite the setback, Maekawa made it clear that he does not want to give up on his baseball career.

“I want to play baseball. I don't know what will happen from here, but if I have the opportunity to play baseball, I want to continue.”

His ultimate goal remains a return to NPB.

“Yes, returning to NPB is what I want most. But if I can play somewhere else, I'll do that as well. I want to make returning to NPB my goal and work toward it from here.”

Maekawa was also asked about the moment from his Carp career that remains most memorable.

He immediately pointed to his first professional hit in 2025.

“My first hit last year is probably what stands out the most. The huge cheer from the fans was also something I'll remember for a long time.”

Despite his departure, Maekawa expressed gratitude toward the organization and the people who supported him.

“I'm extremely grateful to everyone who has taken care of me over the years and to all the fans. I hope that someday I can repay them in a different way.”

When asked again about the reason given for the decision, Maekawa returned to the issue of trust.

“It was about that relationship of trust.”

He acknowledged that he still has mixed feelings about the decision.

“I have regrets, but I have to accept it.”

Maekawa also admitted that he had begun to suspect that this outcome was possible.

“It had crossed my mind to some extent.”

However, he said he deliberately avoided letting that possibility interfere with his work.

“There's no point in thinking about things like that while you're practicing. When I was practicing, I just focused on baseball.”

Now, Maekawa's immediate future remains uncertain. But his goal is clear: continue playing wherever he can, rebuild trust through his actions, and eventually earn another opportunity to play in NPB.