◆ Pacific League Softbank vs. Nippon-Ham (27th, Mizuho PayPay Dome)

starting line-up was announced, and infielder Kenta Imamiya was named as the "number 6 hitter and shortstop," setting a new professional baseball record by becoming the opening short stop shortstop for the 14th consecutive year.

Imamiya, who has spent his entire 17th season The Hawks, has once again secured the starting shortstop position for the opening game this season. This offseason, he was the focus of attention as he competed with Nomura for the starting position, and he also played at second base during the preseason games. Nevertheless, his outstanding defense skills and a batting average of .316 allowed him to maintain his starting position.

A new record surpassing Yoshio Yoshida, Takuro Ishii, Takashi Toritani, and Hayato Sakamoto. Before the game, number 6 player expressed his enthusiasm for the season, saying, "I'll leave that (being the opening day short stop for the 14th consecutive year) as it is, and I want to perform well throughout the year." He will be making a spectacular start to the season in this memorable game.