2026 Persol Climax Series Pacific League Final Stage Game 1: Softbank Hawks 6-4 Nippon-Ham (14th, Mizuho PayPay)

Nippon-Ham suffered a comeback loss to the Softbank Hawks and lost the first game. Including the advantage, their head-to-head record now stands at 0 wins and 3 losses from Nippon-Ham's perspective.

Second-year two-way player Leo Shibata started as the pitcher batting seventh and playing first base, experiencing contrasting fortunes in offense and defense. He showed his presence with the bat, leading off the second inning with a hit to center field that sparked the opening run. Furthermore, in the third inning, he hit a sacrifice fly to right field to temporarily take the lead, delivering a performance that justified his inclusion in the starting line-up.

On defense, with a two-run lead and one out with the bases loaded in the fourth inning, he made a bad throw to home plate. It was a mistake that led to a large number of runs. Shibata revealed, "Was I panicked? Yes, I was. I pulled the throw."

Manager Shinjo did not blame the young warrior for his mistake. He said, "It can't be helped. I put him in the lineup because I have high expectations for his batting."

For a twenty-year-old, every single thing becomes a major experience. 'I felt the importance of each and every play, as a single action can change the atmosphere and the momentum,' they said with emphasis.