◆ Pacific League Seibu Lions 5-3 Orix Buffaloes (31st, Belluna Dome)

Second-round draft pitcher Hakua Hakua Iwaki achieved the remarkable feat of recording his first professional save in his first appearance, proudly stating, "It was about a perfect pitching performance."

With a two-run lead in the ninth, he took the mound in the fifth inning and allowed Benrin to infield hit reach third base with one out and put runners on first and second with two outs. I was able to closer with a good sense of effort," said Nishikawa, who finally cut him down with a 151-kilogram straight ball that he missed struck out.

He was informed of his role as closer just before the season began. He pitched in six exhibition games and allowed no hit. "When I was working as a reliever, my goal was to work hard to be included in the winning pattern. I was really surprised that they chose the best position for me, but I think it's a result of being able to showcase my good pitching," he said, accepting the important role and living up to expectations.