◆SMBC Japan Series 2025 Game 1 Softbank vs. Hanshin Tigers (25th, Mizuho PayPay)
Softbank took the lead.
Hanshin Tigers In the first inning from starting right-hander Murakami, Yanagida reached base with a Walk. In the following Shuto, Yanagida was blocked at second base with two grounders and one out on first base. On Yanagimachi's second pitch, Shuto went to second base and scored the first stolen base of the series. From 1 out and 2nd base, Yanagimachi became 2 out and 2 bases with a struck out swing.
Taking advantage of this opportunity, Kondo, starting line-up had returned to the lineup after recovering from a left side injury and started as the fourth batter and designated hitter, hit a timely single to center full count, scoring the first run.
Kondo commented, "I hit a straight ball. I was focused on getting runner home with this chance to score first. I tried to swing hard and I think I made a good approach." He continued, "I'm glad we were able to score the important first run. We'll play our own style of baseball so we can win the first game of the Japan Series."
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・ [Japan Series] Opening with Tomotaka Okamoto singing the national anthem. Sopranist's singing voice elicits comments like "incredibly dignified" and "incredibly majestic."
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・ [Pacific League CS] Softbank wins with a walk-off-off win. With a 2-0 record and a 100% success rate, Hotaka Yamakawa scored the winning run! "I thought it was a grounder to third base."
