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 important 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.'

Regarding the key player for a breakthrough, he named Canario. He expressed high expectations, saying, 'When Canario gets a hit, the team's atmosphere really picks up.' Kotaro Kiyomiya of Nippon-Ham was also present at the press conference, and the manager was on guard, noting, 'If Kiyomiya gets a hit, they'll gain too much momentum.'