On the 9th, Nippon-Ham held a full team practice at Belluna Dome in preparation for the first stage of the 2026 PERSOL Climax Series Pacific against the Seibu Lions, which begins on the 10th.

Pitcher Kohei Arihara (34), who was entrusted with the start of the first game, made final adjustments through activities such as playing catch. Speaking to the press after practice, he expressed his determination for his role as the 'opening pitcher,' saying, 'I feel I haven't been able to contribute at all this year. However, since I've been given the opportunity to pitch here, I really want to do my best so the team can win.' In this first season back with his former club, he struggled with a 7-9 record and a 4.44 ERA. Nevertheless, with a career CS record of 4 wins and 1 loss and a 1.50 ERA over 6 games, including his time with the Softbank Hawks, the right-hander who excels in short-term series will take the mound for the crucial first game with the championship on the line.

Breaking through the critical point. This season, the team has allowed 20 runs in the first inning, the worst among all innings. About one-third of the total 59 runs have been conceded in the first inning. "I think the start is important, so I want to prepare to throw properly from the very first pitch," he said, paying close attention to the beginning of the game. Against the Seibu Lions this season, he has 1 win, 1 loss, and an ERA of 4.50. "I think they will be swinging aggressively anyway, and they have power, so I want to make sure I can act as a closer for each and every batter," he said with determination.

He did not pitch in the intra-squad games at Es-Con on the 4th and 7th, making this his first time on the mound in 12 days since the Lotte game on September 27th at ZOZO. However, he expressed confidence, saying, 'I was able to train well, and although I haven't played in a real game, I've been able to do a lot of catch, so it was a good adjustment.'

In a press conference the previous day, Manager Shinjo explained his reasoning for the selection and expressed his high expectations, stating, 'I want to go with Arihara, who struggled significantly this year. At the start of the season, the real Arihara didn't show up at all. However, after having him adjust in the minor leagues, the true Arihara has returned. He has good compatibility with this stadium and is well-accustomed to this kind of stage.'