◇ Fukuoka Softbank vs. Orix Game 5 (23rd, MIZUHO PayPay Dome)

Orix Kotaro Kobayashi The player hit his first solo home run.

He started as the 8th batter short stop. In the top of the 5th inning, with the score at 1-5, he was the first to bat and the opposing starter, Naoyuki Uwasawa He hit the first pitch from pitcher, cutter on the outside and low. The ball went up toward the left field at a good angle and went straight into the stands. It was his first Home Run of the season and he got one point back.

This season, Kurebayashi has 18 At Bat of 60 hit bats in 16 games, giving him a batting average of .300. Last season, he played in 136 games, tying his career high, but only hit two Home Run. Will he be able to improve on that figure this season?

◇ Comment from Kurebayashi
"I think I hit cutter. I was able to make a good swing right from the first pitch. I'll keep working hard from now on so I can catch up at an early stage."

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