On the 3rd, Seibu Lions pitcher Kona Takahashi vowed to deliver a brilliant pitch that would lead the team to hosting the Climax Series (CS) at home. With a second-place finish guaranteed if they achieve at least one draw in the two-game series against Lotte on the 5th and 6th (ZOZO Marine Stadium), he spoke with determination ahead of the series opener where he is expected to start, saying, 'I will just focus on my own pitch.' Although his first double-digit win in three years is also on the line, he emphasized his selflessness, stating, 'I'm not really conscious of that.'

In the game against the Softbank Hawks on September 25th (Belluna Dome), he left the mound after 5 innings and 66 pitches. Partly due to the impact of an emergency exit in the middle of the 3rd inning during the September 4th game against the Softbank Hawks (Mizuho PayPay) after developing a blister on his right index finger, this was a precautionary measure taken early. Regarding the condition of his finger, he checked it in the bullpen and stated firmly, 'It's not a problem. I have no concerns.'

We will do our absolute best to host the first game of the Climax Series at home on the 10th.