On the 2nd, Nippon-Ham manager Tsuyoshi Shinjo (54) envisioned breaking through the CS with a 'surprise rotation' to become the best in Japan. The team completed its season on the 1st. If the Seibu Lions lose their remaining two games, there is still a possibility of a comeback for second place. Looking ahead to the CS First Stage (S) against the Seibu Lions starting on the 10th, he expressed caution regarding the opponent's ace, who they have struggled against this season with 4 losses in 5 games and a 1.41 ERA, saying, 'It's Taira-kun (for the first game), right? He's incredibly good.'

If they defeat the Seibu Lions, they will clash with the Softbank Hawks in the Final Stage. He revealed a plan to avoid an ace showdown, saying, 'Even if we put our best pitcher against Moinelo... rather than trying to take that game at all costs, what comes after is more important.' He acknowledged the strength of their nemesis, who has a 1.33 ERA in three games this season, stating, 'Because Moinelo at PayPay Dome is amazing. He's quite hard to hit.' He is looking at the series as a whole. Final adjustments will be made with intra-squad games at Es Con Field on the 4th and 7th. They will search for the best order among Ito, Kitayama, Tatsu, Kato Takayuki, Arihara, and others. (Haruki Kawakami)