◆SMBC Japan Series 2025 Game 4: Hanshin Tigers 2-3 Softbank (29th, Koshien)
Softbank 's Hotaka Yamakawa infielder, started as the fourth batter and first baseman and hit Home Run in three consecutive games, tying the record for most home runs in a Japan Series game.
With neither team scoring, he led off the second inning with two strike and swung at the fourth pitch from Hanshin Tigers 's Takahashi, sending it over center field for a solo home run. Reflecting on his hit after being cornered by two pitches, he said, "The ball was strong, so I was adjusting to it. (Until two strike) it was in a good spot, so I couldn't swing it, but I was able to hit it right away."
Despite being hit with a tough inside pitch, he struck out a pitch that was pitched softly. "There are only a few games left, so whether we win or lose, it's only a matter of time. I wasn't too concerned about how they would attack me, and instead I was able to concentrate on my own batting technique," he said, showing how well he was doing.
This is the first time a team has hit three consecutive home runs in a series since Jojima did so in 2003 when the team was still with Daiei. Other previous records include Hanshin Tigers 's Bass in 1985 and Hiroshima's Eldred in 2016. "A Japan Series record? I'm always basically aiming for home run. Who did you set this record with? Bass is incredible, and so is Eldred. They're quite a tough bunch, I'm happy," he said with a smile.
Last season, his first year after the transfer, he lost to Yokohama and failed to become the first Japanese champion. With one win left until the moment of joy, he said with emphasis, "It's fine as long as we win even if I can't hit at all. Right now, all I'm thinking about is doing my best again from my first turn at bat tomorrow."
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