2026 PERSOL Climax Series Pacific League First Stage Game 1: Seibu Lions vs. Nippon-Ham (10th, Belluna Dome)

Nippon-Ham's two-way player Leo Shibata, a pitcher, was listed in the starting line-up as the number two batter and first baseman. During practice on the 9th, the day before the game, Manager Shinjo expressed his dilemma, saying, '(Nippon-Ham's starter) is Arihara, right? So infield defense is important. Gunji, Nomura, and Kiyomiya don't have a good matchup (with Taira). It's not good. But this could be the chance for them to start hitting. Mizuno wasn't doing well either, but after one game he started hitting one after another, and now his performance is good enough to bat fourth. Should I prioritize defense, a home run, or getting a walk? If I want someone to draw a walk, maybe Nishikawa to put on the pressure. I'll decide by 4:30 tomorrow (laughs).' The team aims to conquer Taira with a defense-oriented order, utilizing players like Narama and Yamagata who have established reputations for their defense.

1 (Shortstop) Mizuno

2 (1) Shibata

3 (Finger) Reyes

4 (Right) Manami

5 (Center) Yazawa

6 (Second Base) Yamagata

7 (Left) Kotaro Kiyomiya

8 (3) Narama

9 (Catcher) Shindo

pitcher Arihara