◆ Nippon-Ham vs. Softbank Hawks (11th, Escon Stadium)

Softbank Hawks will see the return of Ukyo Shuto to starting line-up as the seventh batter and center fielder. He was rushed to the hospital on the 8th due to an allergic reaction to an ingredient in a topical medication just before the game against Seibu Lions (at Mizuho PayPay Dome) and missed the game against Seibu on the 9th. The speedster, who has represented Japan in the WBC for two consecutive tournaments, will be in the starting starting line-up for this crucial series against the league leaders.