On the 15th, the Softbank Hawks secured a 6-2 win in their game against Nippon-Ham (Mizuho PayPay). In the bottom of the 9th inning with the score tied, and with one out and the bases loaded, the number four hitter Ryoya Kurihara hit a grand slam to right-center to decide the game. On the CS Fuji TV ONE program 'Professional baseball News 2026' broadcast on the 15th, Ryoya Kurihara was highlighted. Commentator Yosuke Hiraishi remarked, "They chose to walk Kondo and face Ryoya Kurihara, but Softbank Hawks has a succession of good batters... He didn't swing with unnecessary force in a situation where just one run was needed. It was a wonderful piece of hitting."

Atsushi Kataoka, who was also providing commentary, looked back on the play, saying, "I think he was narrowing his focus to fastballs to some extent, but when the batter before the cleanup hitter and double crown winner is given an intentional walk, it really lights a fire in your heart. I believe the result of swinging compactly at a high fastball without overswinging is what led to this grand slam."

☆ Cooperation: Fuji TV ONE "Professional baseball News 2026"