On October 28, Fukuoka Softbank, who won Game 4 of the "SMBC Japan Series 2026" held at MIZUHO PayPay Dome, was crowned Japan champions for the 13th time and for the second consecutive year. At the victory press conference held after the game, manager Hiroki Kokubo, player Tomoya Masaki, and player Yudai Yamamoto took the stage. Below is the Q&A with player Tomoya Masaki.

--First of all, how do you feel right now?
"I really didn't think I could win the MVP, so I'm truly happy that I was able to perform like this."

--Looking back at yesterday's dramatic turn of events
"Makihara-san hit a single to tie the game, and it was the following inning. The count went in favor of the hitter and I thought it was a situation where we needed an extra-base hit, so I decided to swing with all my might. As a result, I'm glad it became a walk-off home run."

--Do you remember the view and the voices you heard as you rounded the bases?
"I didn't think it would be a home run, so I was running at full speed. It wasn't until I was between second and third base that I really realized it was a walk-off home run, so the time to celebrate while running was short, but my teammates welcomed me at home plate, and that made me very happy."

--Which voice among your teammates left an impression on you?
"I was getting mobbed, so I couldn't tell at all who was saying what, but everyone was happy, and seeing them like that made me feel happy too."

--Do you remember Manager Kokubo's expression at that time?
"Yes, we did a high-five with both hands at the end, and I was very happy."

--(To Manager Kokubo) He says he was happy
Manager Kokubo: "At first, everyone was so excited that my voice wasn't reaching them, so I had to call him about three times."

--There were comments about a rivalry with Taisei Makihara this season
"Maki-san told me we were rivals, which really motivated me to work hard. During the regular season, he told me 'I won,' and during the Climax Series, he said 'Masaki won, so let's both do our best to see who wins in the Japan Series.' In the end, I think I won."

--This past year has been a breakthrough year. Looking back on it now
"I had a major injury last year, and I've been able to see sights this past year that I could never have imagined back then, so that was wonderful. There were many games this year where I felt anxious or nervous, but looking at it as a whole, my honest impression is that it was fun."

--What is the strength of The Hawks?
"Watching the veterans up close, they work so hard in practice and preparation. Seeing that makes us juniors feel like we absolutely have to do it because our seniors are doing it. I think that synergistic effect is what makes the team strong."

--A message to the fans
"It was a year full of tough and nerve-wracking games, but I think there were many games we won thanks to the cheers of the fans. It gave me a lot of strength personally. The season ends today, but I want to work hard so we can win the championship again next year. Thank you very much."