The pre-match press conference for the '2026 PERSOL Climax Series Pa' First Stage (S) was held on the 9th. Representing the second-place Seibu Lions, manager Fumiya Nishiguchi and infielder Shuta Tonosaki attended, while manager Tsuyoshi Shinjo and infielder Kotaro Kiyomiya represented the third-place Nippon-Ham.
The season record between the two teams stands at 12 wins, 12 losses, and 1 draw. Manager Nishiguchi expressed his determination, stating, 'The key will be how well the batting lineup can connect. We were even with Nippon-Ham this year but lost at home, so I want to find a way to win.'
The start of the crucial first game is entrusted to Taira. The manager expressed his confidence, saying, 'He has outstanding stability. He is a pitcher I can rely on with peace of mind.'
![[Seibu Lions] Kaima Taira in line for 10th win; Keisuke Nakata drives in opening run with first RBI of season on a triple in the 5th](https://hochi.news/images/2026/08/25/20260825-OHT1I51353-L.jpg)
![[Seibu Lions] Kaima Taira is certain to win the best ERA title! Reached the regulation innings pitched for the season after finishing 4 innings of pitch.](https://hochi.news/images/2026/09/29/20260929-OHT1I51371-L.jpg)
![[Nippon-Ham] Manager Tsuyoshi Shinjo also admits defeat after the team's third shutout loss of the season: "We just couldn't hit Taira today."](https://hochi.news/images/2026/05/15/20260515-OHT1I51717-L.jpg)
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