Daisuke Nakashima of the Rakuten Eagles struggled with a .216 batting average as of the end of May in his third professional season this year, but his performance improved from July onwards, and he ultimately reached the required number of plate appearances for the second consecutive year with a .274 batting average, 5 Home Runs, and 27 RBI.

Tomotaka Sakaguchi, who appeared on 'Professional baseball News 2026' broadcast on Fuji TV ONE on October 5th, commented, 'He is a player who bats in the first or second slot, or generally in the upper lineup. While expectations were high for him all year, it was significant that he raised his average in the second half and finally returned to his original batting style to secure his spot. Since he is strong against fastballs, I personally believe that having such a player in the leadoff spot gives momentum to the team and the batting lineup.'

Hatsuhiko Tsuji also agreed, saying, "I think so too. He had a late start after the season opened. He is a batter with great skill. It is the same with the Softbank Hawks, but it is unpleasant when the leadoff hitter is strong. Muneyama is there in the second slot. I think this duo will be a significant threat."

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