Seibu pitcher Tetsuya Utsumi, who has won a total of 135 wins in professional baseball and has announced his retirement this season, held a press conference on the 19th and looked back on his professional life in 19 years, saying, "I'm full of feelings." rice field.
In his 19th year as a professional, 40-year-old pitcher Utsumi joined the Giants in 2004 and won a total of 133 wins in 15 years. I had a concurrent post.
On the morning of the 19th, pitcher Utsumi held a press conference at a team facility in Tokorozawa City, Saitama Prefecture, and explained why he decided to retire, saying, "Over the past few years, I have gradually lost the confidence that I can absolutely hold back like I used to. Even standing on the military mound, I thought it was different."
In addition, he won 18 wins in 2011 when he was a giant and won the most wins for the first time, and accumulated 135 wins in 19 years. However, I was taught by many people and gradually improved my skills, and as a result, I was overwhelmed with the highest number of wins. I was aiming for 200 wins, so I think it was not enough, but I think I did well.” I was.
Regarding Seibu, who joined the team after playing an active part in the giants, he said, "My regret is that I was not able to play an active part in the Lions. If it was true, it would not have been strange to be told to take off the uniform earlier, but I will continue to play until I decide. I'm really grateful to have been given the chance to do this." He said, "I was able to show what I've done by playing with young players at Seibu. I think it's still a long way off, but I want to support him." I sent that.
After the press conference, Yutaro Watanabe, a fourth-year pitcher who admires Utsumi pitcher, read a letter of gratitude saying, "The four years I've been taught various things are the most valuable assets in my life." Also, the pitchers gathered and presented a bouquet of flowers, and Utsumi sometimes showed a smile with tears in his eyes.