Softbank Hawks' Yuki Yanagita reached the required number of plate appearances for the first time in three years during this season, his 16th year as a professional, and finished with a batting average over .300 (.302).

Yanagita's batting average struggled to rise in the early part of the season, but from July onwards, he maintained an average over .300, ultimately finishing with a .302 batting average. With 19 Home Runs and 70 RBIs, he showed his presence as the number five hitter batting behind the number four hitter, Ryoya Kurihara.

Appearing on 'Professional baseball News 2026' broadcast on Fuji TV ONE on the 5th, Hatsuhiko Tsuji expressed his surprise, saying, 'Looking at various play styles last year, he is at an age where leg strength and reactions tend to decline, but when he swings hard, he is more like a closer. Since he hits this much, he is a .300 hitter.' Tomotaka Sakaguchi praised him, saying, 'It is amazing to hit .300 at this age. Since he ended up hitting 19 home run, even if he focuses on making contact, he has the power and technique to hit this many home run. By performing solidly, he had a good influence on Kurihara. He truly made the lineup one that you cannot let your guard down against. I think it is wonderful.'

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