[Softbank Hawks] Manager Hiroki Kokubo says he's not satisfied despite winning the series, aiming for the first three-game winning streak to start the season in three years by "maximizing luck." He added, "We're not going to settle for a 2-1 record."

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In the 7th inning, manager Hiroki Kokubo informs home-base umpire Tsuchiyama of a player substitution (Photo by Hidenori Baba)

◆ Pacific League Softbank Hawks 6-4 Nippon-Ham (28th, Mizuho PayPay Dome)

Softbank Hawks came from behind to win, scoring five runs in the fifth inning. They secured their second consecutive win of the season and clinched a series victory against Nippon-Ham.

On the pitching side, Haru Matsumoto showed a tenacious pitch, allowing 6 hit and 2 runs while striking out 8 strike out over 6 innings, setting the stage for the game.

In the fifth inning, with two outs and the bases bases loaded, the offense was trailing by two runs when Kondo hit a three-doble to take the lead. They then added three more runs, including a solo home run by Yamakawa, to secure their second consecutive win.

After the game, manager Kokubo praised the left-handed pitcher making his first appearance of the season, saying, "I think it was a day where he (Haru Matsumoto) really set the stage for the game." He also expressed admiration for Kondo's concentration, saying, "As expected."

If they can secure a win against Nippon-Ham on the 29th (at Mizuho PayPay Dome), it will be their first time starting the season with three consecutive wins since 2023. The manager reiterated his determination to win, saying, "When things are going well, I believe in maximizing good fortune and minimizing bad luck. I'm going to get rid of the idea that two wins and one loss is good enough."

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[Softbank Hawks] Manager Hiroki Kokubo says he's not satisfied despite winning the series, aiming for the first three-game winning streak to start the season in three years by "maximizing luck." He added, "We're not going to settle for a 2-1 record."