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

The Seibu Lions will face the first game of the Climax Series (CS) First Stage at their home stadium, Belluna Dome.

In the batting order, infielder Taiga Hirasawa was in the starting line-up as the 'number 2 DH'. Infielder Natsuo Takizawa and outfielder Shinya Hasegawa, both of whom appeared as pinch runners in the 2022 CS, were also included in the starting line-up.

The starting pitcher is Kaima Taira. This season, he appeared in 23 games, recording 12 wins and 5 losses with a 1.36 ERA. He also earned his first career title for the best ERA. While he appeared as a reliever in the 2022 CS, he will approach this game as a starter. Maintaining his composure, he stated, "I believe every game is important, so it doesn't matter that it's the first game of the CS," as he looks to deliver a brilliant performance that will give the team momentum.

Seibu Lions' starting line-up is as follows:

1 (Right) Canario

2 (DH) Hirasawa

3 (capture) Kojima

4. Nevin

5 (3) Watanabe

6 (2) Ishii

7 (Left) Hasegawa

8 (shortstop) Takizawa

9 (Center) Nishikawa

Starting pitcher: Kaima Taira