SoftBank Hawks Demote Hsu Ruo-hsi to Second Team to Regain Form

Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks pitcher Hsu Jo-hsi has been removed from the active roster and reassigned to the team’s secondary squad, according to multiple Japanese sports reports published on April 18, 2026. The move follows a recent outing in which he allowed seven runs, prompting the decision by Hawks manager Hiroki Kokubo to place him in a conditioning and reinforcement program.

Hsu Jo-hsi, who signed a three-year contract worth up to US$15 million with the Hawks in late December 2025, had been expected to contribute to the team’s starting rotation for the 2026 Nippon Professional Baseball season. His most recent appearance came in an exhibition game against Team Taiwan on February 27, 2026, where he pitched three scoreless innings, allowing only one hit while striking out batters with a fastball reaching 99 miles per hour.

However, in a subsequent outing, Hsu struggled significantly, giving up seven runs. After that performance, the Hawks made the decision to send him down to the minor league affiliate for further development. Manager Hiroki Kokubo stated that the move was not punitive but part of a planned strengthening menu designed to help the pitcher regain form and consistency.

Kokubo emphasized that the adjustment was made with Hsu’s long-term development in mind, saying that not being satisfied with current performance would be a necessary step for growth. The Hawks’ coaching staff will oversee a tailored program focused on refining his mechanics and rebuilding his stamina during his time in the secondary squad.

The decision comes shortly after Hsu represented Taiwan in the World Baseball Classic, where he pitched four innings against Australia on March 5, 2026, allowing two hits and no runs while continuing to work on his readiness for the NPB season. Despite his strong showing in that game, he opted to remain in Japan afterward to prepare for the upcoming campaign rather than return home immediately.

Hsu had previously joined the Hawks’ spring training camp with the goal of building chemistry with new teammates ahead of the season. His early workouts included side sessions with the pitching staff, and he expressed a desire to earn a spot in the starting rotation while prioritizing his physical condition above all else.

As of April 18, 2026, Hsu remains with the organization but is not eligible to play in first-team games until he is reinstated to the active roster. The Hawks have not announced a timeline for his potential return, indicating that the move will be based on his progress in the reinforcement program.