2026 Persol Climax Series Pacific League Final Stage Game 3: Softbank Hawks 6-2 Nippon-Ham (16th, Mizuho PayPay)

It was learned on the 16th that Nippon-Ham outfielder Haruki Nishikawa (34) has solidified his intention to continue his active career next season. When asked about his future after the lose on this day, he immediately set his sights on his 17th year, stating, "Preparations for next year are already beginning. I hope to take a short break and then work on building up my body."

Although he did not appear in the third game, he showed his presence in the second game by recording one hit as part of the starting line-up. After finishing his first post-season in a long time, the veteran accepted the lose and vowed revenge, saying, 'It is frustrating to have them clinch it right in front of us, and it made me want to win the league title once again.'

This season, having returned to the team for the first time in five years after being released by Yakult last off-season, he played in 25 games with a .194 batting average, 1 Home Run, 6 RBI, and 2 stolen bases. He also demonstrated clutch hitting in key situations, recording an OPS of .673 and a .333 batting average with runners in scoring position. He will hold discussions with the club as early as later this month.