On the 17th, the Japan Professional Sports Association, a public interest incorporated foundation, held the 55th Prime Minister's Cup Japan Professional Sports Awards Ceremony in Tokyo and announced that Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto (27) had been selected as the recipient of the Prime Minister's Cup Japan Professional Sports Awards.
The Fighting Spirit Award went to Softbank Hawks pitcher Liván Moinelo (30). In his ninth year with Softbank Hawks, the Cuban-born left-hander pitched in 24 games this season, recording 12 wins and 3 losses with ERA of 1.46, earning him the Best ERA and Best Nine honors. He also won the MVP award, making a major contribution to the team's victory in the Japan Series.
Moinelo sent a video message at the awards ceremony, greeting everyone in Japanese with "Ohayo gozaimasu," and added with deep emotion, "I am honored to have been selected for such a wonderful award. As a Cuban, I am happy to have been selected for such a historic Japanese award."
Softbank Hawks also received a special award as a team. Manager Kokubo, who appeared via video, said, "It is an honor for the team to receive this very prestigious award, the Prime Minister's Cup Special Award. We are able to receive this wonderful award thanks to the players, staff, everyone involved, and our fans who support us every day. On behalf of the team, I would like to express my sincere gratitude. We will continue to work hard every day as one team. I would like to ask for your continued support."
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・ [Softbank Hawks] Manager Hiroki Kokubo receives Shoriki Matsutaro Award for the first time, leading the team to its first Japan Series title in five years as "the culmination of the efforts of the entire organization."
