SMBC Japan Series 2026 Game 4: Softbank Hawks 4-2 DeNA (28th, Mizuho PayPay)

The Softbank Hawks won four consecutive games to secure their 13th Japan Series title, their second in two years. They reached the top with a perfect seven-game winning streak in the postseason, starting from the final stage of the Climax Series against Nippon-Ham. Manager Hiroki Kokubo crossed the finish line without ever considering a moment's pause.

The team is entering a golden age. Sadaharu Oh, the club chairman, looked toward even greater heights, stating, "We were able to play our style of game, especially from the sixth inning onward. Even when we gave up runs, we kept them to a minimum. Although the cleanup hitters didn't hit any home runs, Masaki came through with a hit at a crucial moment. In terms of performance, the players haven't shown everything they are capable of yet. We can become an even stronger team."