[Softbank Hawks] Yugo Maeda misses out on two pitcher titles... Regrettable go-ahead home run allowed in the 8th inning. Team wins with a comeback after he left the mound. Career highs in both innings pitched (into the 8th) and pitch count (122). | Pacific League.com

[Softbank Hawks] Yugo Maeda fails to secure two pitcher titles... Regrettable go-ahead home run allowed in the 8th inning. Team comes back to win after he left the mound. Career highs in both innings pitched (into the 8th) and pitch count (122).

Sports Hochi

October 3, 2026 05:00

In the 8th inning with two outs and a runner on first, Yuu Maeda stands in shock after giving up a go-ahead two-run home run to Sato (right) (Camera: Aki Takematsu)

◆Pacific League: Lotte 3-4 Softbank Hawks (2nd, ZOZO Marine)

In his final regular-season appearance, Softbank Hawks' Yu Maeda failed to reach his 13th win, which would have secured him the titles for most wins and highest winning percentage. With the score tied 1-1 in the 8th inning and two outs with a runner on first, he gave up a go-ahead two-run home run to Sato and was removed from the mound after a Walk to the following hitter.

Both the inning and the 122 pitches were personal career highs. 'Physically, I could have kept going. Not being able to be the closer is a weakness of mine. I hope to grow by the time the CS starts,' he said, looking forward. After he left the mound, the team secured a comeback victory for their seventh straight win, and he avoided his second loss.