◇Fukuoka Softbank vs Saitama Seibu Lions Game 25 (23rd, MIZUHO PayPay Dome)

Fukuoka Softbank's Tatsuru Yanagimachi hit his first-ever lead-off Home Run in the first inning. It was a valuable game-tying 2nd solo home run.

Yanagimachi, who was in the starting line-up as the "No. 1 right fielder" for the third consecutive game, showcased a batting performance that brought momentum to the team during the first inning attack while trailing by one point. Facing the opponent's starting pitcher Natsuki Takeuchi, he swung through a 137km/h two seam fastball on a 2-2 count, and the ball flew in a straight line into the right-field home run terrace.

The batting line-up then scored three runs in this inning, including a timely hit by Taisei Makihara. Although they allowed the opening run in this direct confrontation with 2nd place Saitama Seibu Lions, they succeeded in turning the game around from the first inning to gain an advantage heading into the "Persol CS Pacific League."

With this, Yanagimachi has now recorded a hit in seven consecutive games. This season, his junior from Keio University, Tomoya Masaki, had emerged as a lead-off hitter by marking seven lead-off Home Run, approaching the Pacific League record, but the senior showed his pride in the final stages of the season.

◇Tatsuru Yanagimachi Comment
"I hit a sinker. I entered the batter's box aiming to get on base and create a chance as the lead-off hitter. As a result, it caught the bat well and turned into a home run in a good way. Since I was able to bring the game back to square one first, I will do my best to lead us to a win from here."

Text by So Yokoyama