◆ Sakaguchi: "The pitch was perfect" -squeeze control prevented additional runs

On the 23rd, Lotte win the second game against Seibu 5-2. They allowed the first run with a solo Home Run in the first inning, and lost another run in the second inning with a timely hit with runners on second and third and one out. They were still in a pinch with runners on first and third and Natsuo Takizawa attempted squeeze, but first baseman Soto throw to home plate to prevent third runner Seiya Matsubara from scoring. The batting line scored four runs in the third inning and successfully turned the game around.

Soto's excellent defense, which led to the comeback, attracted attention on Fuji TV ONE's "Professional baseball News 2025" broadcast on the 23rd.

Takagi Yutaka said, "Soto's play in preventing Seibu 's third run was outstanding. For Seibu, with Takizawa as hitter and Matsubara as runner on third base, it was a perfect squeeze opportunity, and if they didn't do it now, they might do it later." Sakaguchi Tomotaka analyzed, "I think they had predicted runner and hitter to some extent, but the bunt wasn't bad and, with the runner on third base being fast, the course of the throw after he caught the ball with bare hands was also perfect. It was great that he was able to throw the ball in a position where runner would slide in if catcher caught it."

Takagi also praised Taneichi, saying, "Atsuki Taneichi used his quick kicks well. The combination of this quick kick and Soto prevented one point, and it felt like that's what led to the victory."

☆ Cooperation: Fuji TV ONE "Professional baseball News 2025"