◇Fukuoka Softbank vs Saitama Seibu Lions Game 21 (4th, MIZUHO PayPay Dome)

Fukuoka Softbank's Tomoya Masaki recorded a leadoff hitter Home Run. This marks the 6th leadoff hitter Home Run of the season, setting a new club record.

In the bottom of the inning, after starting pitcher Yugo Maeda escaped a crisis with runners on 1st and 3rd and 2 outs in the top of the 1st. The opposing starter was pitcher Kona Takahashi, who has pitched well this season with 4 wins, 1 loss, and a 1.17 ERA in 6 games against Fukuoka Softbank. Tomoya Masaki hit his 23rd solo shot, his first in 3 games, from that natural enemy to give the team the opening run.

On August 12, he hit a leadoff hitter blast off Chiba Lotte Marines pitcher Long, tying the club record. With this hit, he also extended his consecutive game on-base streak, which began on August 8, to 22.

◇Tomoya Masaki's Comment
"I hit a slider. First, I wanted to get the opening run, and as the number 1 hitter, I wanted to give the team momentum. I'm glad I could get off to the best start with the opening home run. Since this is an important three-game series, I want to support Yugo (Maeda) so that we can lead this first game to a victory."