SMBC Japan Series 2026 Game 3: Softbank Hawks 2X-1 DeNA (10th extra inning) (27th, Mizuho PayPay)

Softbank Hawks are the champions, after all. Higashi closer scoreless through seven innings. In four of those innings, they allowed the leadoff hitter to get on base, but somehow managed to induce five double double play. It was a testament to Higashi's ability to throw a variety of breaking ball with superb control, making them hit the ball where the defensive shift was positioned, but there was absolutely no attempt to disrupt their rhythm, such as Shuto showing a bunt stance.

No matter how much they are backed into a corner, they stay composed and do not lose their form. Even in the Japan Series, they fight just as they do in the regular season without forcing small baseball. Everyone plays without panic. As a result, Kurihara hit a doble in the ninth inning, Makihara Dai hit a game-tying RBI single with two outs, and in the tenth inning, Masaki—who has great power and could now be called the best number one hitter in Japan—delivered a walk-off home run; the right people provided the answers. I was once again struck by the greatness of a team that maintains a four-tier system and selects as many as 24 players, including developmental picks, in the draft.

DeNA is playing well, with this being their third consecutive game going into an extra inning. With Azuma's excellent pitching, there was a moment where it seemed like a dream scenario where a win could lead to a repeat of two years ago, but it feels like the harder DeNA tries, the more the champion's strength stands out. (Sports Hochi Critic: Kazutomo Miyamoto)