◆ Commentary team's evaluation: "There are no consecutive hits," and "As expected, his control is good."

Softbank Hawks' Haru Matsumoto started Game 3 of the SMBC Japan Series 2026 on the 27th. He pitched well, throwing 101 pitches over 6 innings, allowing 6 hits, recording 5 strike outs, no walk, and 1 runs.

Matsumoto allowed the opening run but managed to hold on with minimum runs. On the Fuji TV ONE broadcast of 'Professional baseball News 2026' on the 27th, commentator Hiroki Nomura evaluated the performance, saying, 'I think the content was good. Although he ultimately gave up one timely hit, he pitched solidly against the cleanup hitters. While he allowed one hit each to Shugo Maki and Keita Sano, he didn't let them link up. That is why he was able to finish six innings with only one run allowed, so I believe he fully fulfilled his role as a starter, and I would give him a score of 100.'

Another commentator, Takahiro Saeki, said, "I think he delivered the best pitch. There were no consecutive hits. From the perspective of a fielder, he is a very easy pitcher to defend behind." The MC, Mitsuru Manaka, praised him, saying, "runner got on base, but with no walk, his control is indeed excellent. Especially since his fastball-type pitches to the outside corner for left-handed hitter and the inside corner for right-handed hitter were landing in very good spots, it was a pitch that hardly allowed consecutive hits. With one runs in six innings, he passed; I think it was a good performance."

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