On September 4th from 18:00, the 21st round match between Fukuoka Softbank and Saitama Seibu Lions will be held at MIZUHO PayPay Dome.

【Match Record】Fukuoka Softbank (1st) vs. Saitama Seibu Lions (2nd) 10 wins, 10 losses

【Probable Starters】
Fukuoka Softbank: Yugo Maeda pitcher 15 games, 11 wins, 0 losses, ERA 1.82
Saitama Seibu Lions: Kona Takahashi pitcher 19 games, 9 wins, 5 losses, ERA 2.51

In this direct confrontation between 1st and 2nd place with a 5-game difference, Yugo Maeda pitcher and Kona Takahashi pitcher will start. Yugo Maeda pitcher, who is currently on an 11-game winning streak, has performed brilliantly against Saitama Seibu Lions this season with 3 wins in 3 games, allowing only 10 hit and 0 runs over a total of 20 inning. On the other hand, Kona Takahashi pitcher also has a good compatibility with Fukuoka Softbank, recording 4 wins and 1 loss with an ERA of 1.17 in 6 games. Which side will emerge victorious?

In the lineup, pay attention to Ryoya Kurihara and Nevin. Ryoya Kurihara showed great performance with 4 hit on August 30th, but his hitting has stopped in the last two games, and he hasn't hit a Home Run since the 22nd of the same month. He hopes to regain his form and produce a mass of hits for the final stage. Also, Nevin has recorded 4 hit in 8 At Bat against Yugo Maeda pitcher this season. Can he find a clue to break through and catch the Softbank Hawks for a comeback championship?

Text by Minagi Niwa