SMBC Japan Series 2026 Game 1: DeNA 1-3 Softbank Hawks (11th extra inning) (24th, Yokohama)

The Softbank Hawks defeated DeNA in a fierce 11-inning extra inning battle to take the lead. After scoring first in the 7th inning, reliever ace Hiroki Matsumoto was caught in the 8th inning, resulting in a tie. However, in the 11th extra inning, Yanagita led off with a doble that deflected off first baseman Sano's glove to reach base. With one out and runners on first and second, Shoji hit a timely doble to left field. Furthermore, they added another run with a sacrifice fly from pinch hitter Yanagimachi.

The following is a Q&A session with manager Hiroki Kokubo.

First, looking back on it

It was a very good game from the first match and a difficult situation, but Shoji really came through with a great hit in the 11th inning.

The attack of the 11th inning is

After Yudai was hit by a pitch, Shoji performed well in the CS Final and had one hit and one RBI today as well. I think it was a good hit at a point where I was hoping he would get into the flow.

Looking at the pitcher, the starter Uwasawa pitched seven scoreless innings with zero runs.

"closer the powerful DeNA lineup to just one run was the key to our victory. I think the solid work of our reliever pitchers, including Uwasawa, ultimately led to win."

We won the first match, heading towards revenge for what happened two years ago.

Of course. I want to focus only on winning the next three games and give it my all starting tomorrow.

Although there were concerns about rain, a large number of fans gathered.

Thank you for coming out today despite the poor conditions. The forecast for tomorrow looks bad as well, but please come out and give us your support. Thank you very much.