2026 PERSOL Climax Series Pacific League First Stage Game 3: Seibu Lions 1-4 Nippon-Ham (12th, Belluna Dome)

Nippon-Ham's Nomura shone for the second consecutive day. Following his game-winning hit in a 1-0 victory on the 11th, he became a key figure in the team's comeback to reach the Final Stage by hitting a go-ahead RBI single to left field in the second inning. 'I simply hit the balls I could hit. I was able to switch my mindset well, accepting that I can't hit what is impossible to hit,' he said. After hanging in there with three consecutive foul balls, he caught a change-up on the eighth pitch, leading to a great hit.

Just as he calmly reflects on the match, his heart remains steady even in a fight with no room for error. 'I am mindful of the weight of a single point, but I am able to play without putting unnecessary pressure on myself,' he said. Maintaining his composure, he continues to deliver impressive results.

This is the final stage where they challenge the Softbank Hawks for the third consecutive year. 'We were beaten many times during the regular season. I want to finish by getting proper revenge.' He intends to clear the humiliation of finishing with 5 wins, 18 losses, and 2 draws on this grand stage.