
◆ Pacific League Nippon-Ham 9-10 Orix Buffaloes (August 2nd, ES CON FIELD)
Orix Buffaloes Keita Nakagawa infielder (30) was "baptized" in enemy territory. It was something I've never felt before.... With one run in the eighth inning and two outs, he scored the game-winning run with a single to right-center field, then quickly made his way to the plate. He is known as the "invincible Nakagawa," but he was asked a lot of relentless questions by "Mizuki-kun. bases loaded sweep triple
"If you could use magic, what ability would you want?" Faced with this unexpected breaking ball right from the start, he gave a quick-witted reply: "Hmm, I wonder (laughs). I'd want a magic that would make every swing a hit." However, when asked, "Do you have any surprising anecdotes about Orix Buffaloes players?", he stammered, "Hmm. That's quite difficult (laughs). Please give me some time." He was then given a compromise: "Just tell me something funny that happened recently." But he replied, "Hmm. Not much comes to mind... (laughs). Sorry!" and bowed his head politely, drawing laughter from the audience.
The team overcame a five-run deficit to secure their first win of the season at the stadium. When asked, "What are you most proud of that sets you apart from other teams?", he replied, "I guess it's our competitive spirit. I think our never-give-up attitude is second to none." His unwavering answer to the final question perfectly symbolized the team's spirit that day. (Shunta Nanbu)