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

The Softbank Hawks have secured their spot in the Japan Series for the third consecutive year, marking their 23rd appearance, the most in Pacific League history. They advanced by winning three straight games from the first match. With three consecutive comeback victories, they finished with a 5-0 record, including their two-win advantage. In the fifth inning with one out and a runner on second, Tomoya Masaki outfielder hit a decisive two-run comeback home run, his first of the series. Yudai Shoji infielder, who recorded 5 hit in 11 At Bat over the three games, was named MVP. In the Final Stage, which featured the same matchup for the third year in a row, the league champions earned the right to challenge for their 13th Japan Series title and second in two years.

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It wasn't about the momentum; the difference in strength, just like in the regular season, was reflected directly in the result. While the Softbank Hawks managed to tie the game in the third inning after Yanagimachi's grounder moved the runner over from second with no outs, Nippon-Ham temporarily took the lead in the fifth, but Narama fell to a third-base grounder with runners on second and third and no outs before they could score. It was as if he couldn't read the situation... the quality of the outs was simply different.

All three games were come-from-behind losses. In a head-to-head battle, Nippon-Ham was simply overpowered in every aspect: running, hitting, and fielding. Mannami's slump was also a major factor. While they almost seized the momentum in the first inning with Kotaro Kiyomiya's RBI hit, he was easily retired. I expected to see more growth, but both Kiyomiya and Nomura left much to be desired. On the other hand, the Softbank Hawks left even fewer openings as Shoji, batting ninth, made his presence felt. I am sure Manager Shinjo is frustrated by the three-game losing streak, but it felt as though it was not a matter of his tactical decisions.

Naturally, Central League teams will also struggle in the Japan Series. If things continue as they are, DeNA will advance. While there is the possibility of a 'miracle' like the underdog victory two years ago, considering the condition of the relievers and closers on both teams, there are no visible weaknesses in the Softbank Hawks. (Sports Hochi Critic: Yoshiaki Kanemura)