◇ Fukuoka Softbank vs. Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Game 1 (27th, MIZUHO PayPay Dome)

Fukuoka Softbank tied the score temporarily with Ryoya Kurihara 's No. 1 and 2 runs and Kensuke Kondo 's No. 1 solo.

Kurihara entered his first at-bat with one out and first base in the bottom of the second inning chasing three runs, and from count 1-1, he brought a fastball with a low outside angle thrown by opponent starter Hiromi Ito pitcher to the home run terrace. Kondo bounced back pitcher Ito's splitter from count 1-0 in the bottom of the third. The batted ball became the first solo to tie the score and pierce the light stand.

Kurihara had made a defense mistake in the first inning and led to a runs. He recovered with a blow and raised a counterattack.

◇Kurihara player's comment
"I suddenly caused trouble to the team, so I just wanted to make up for it somehow. I want to make up for my mistakes and try to win from here."

◇Kondo's comment
"I was able to capture fork perfectly, and I think I was able to bat the batting I wanted. We allowed a three-run lead in the first inning and wanted to catch up early, but it was good that we were able to get back to square one with home run. That's all I need to do so that I can definitely win the opening match and the important match against The Fighters."

Text: Rihoko Niwa