SMBC Japan Series 2026 Game 3: Softbank Hawks vs DeNA (27th, Mizuho PayPay Dome)

Mitsuki Kondo (Tokai University), the gold medalist in the 48kg judo category at the Asian Games, performed the ceremonial first pitch. She appeared in her judo uniform, then took off the jacket to reveal a jersey with number 48 before heading to the mound. She threw the ball with all her might, receiving a large round of applause from the stands.

Kondo won gold at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games held in September. In the same weight class, Natsumi Tsunoda won gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Kondo, who is aiming for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, is expected to be her successor. Her older brother, Hayato (Park24), also won a gold medal in the men's 60kg class at the same tournament.