[Nippon-Ham] Two-run lead evaporates as the game returns to a stalemate... Winningest right-hander Koki Kitayama gives up two runs in the third inning. On the brink of elimination with 0 wins and 4 losses if they lose | Pacific League.com

[Nippon-Ham] Two-run lead vanishes as the game returns to a stalemate... League-leading wins right-hander Koki Kitayama allows two runs in the third inning; a loss would leave the team on the brink at 0 wins and 4 losses.

Sports Hochi

October 15, 2026 19:13

In the third inning with one out and a runner on third, Koki Kitayama (photographed by Masahiko Ikeuchi) allowed a game-tying hit to Kensuke Kondo (left).

2026 Persol Climax Series Pacific League Final Stage Game 2: Softbank Hawks vs. Nippon-Ham (15th, Mizuho PayPay)

Nippon-Ham was caught in a tie.

The starting mound was Koki Kitayama pitcher. The right-hander, who earned 13 wins this season to take the most wins title, started with no hit and no runs pitch through the second inning. However, it was the third inning with a two-run lead. With no outs and a runner on third, he gave up a timely doble to Masaki that hit the left field wall directly. Furthermore, with one out and a runner on third, he allowed a timely hit to right field by Kondo. The game was returned to the starting point.

They finished the season more than 10 games behind the first-place Softbank Hawks, and this final stage is a best-of-seven series that started with Softbank Hawks holding a two-win advantage. After suffering a comeback loss in the first game yesterday on the 14th, Nippon-Ham currently trails with 0 wins and 3 losses. They are aiming to bounce back starting from the second game.

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