◆Nippon Life Interleague Series 2026: DeNA 1-7 Orix Buffaloes (May 26, Yokohama)

Orix Buffaloes 's Nishikawa made a decisive move. "To build momentum and get on base." This was his second time starting line-up as the leadoff hitter this season, the first being against Nippon-Ham on the 10th (at Kyocera Dome). He executed both goals simultaneously from the first inning. He hit doble that hit the right-center wall. This was the starting point for a 4-run lead, and they maintained control of the game to secure the win.

His career batting average in Yokohama was .375, the highest among all Central League home stadiums. Before the game, he made a generous offering: "Fried Rice with Two Fried Eggs," a specialty of Hamasta (Yokohama Stadium). He had heard that Machado, who joined the team in the same year as him (2024), loved it, and this was a routine he started two years ago. He ordered a total of 150 plates over the three games that followed. His "power meal" for his teammates also contributed to the decisive victory that ended their two-game losing streak.

Entering his third year as a free agent from Hiroshima, Nishikawa has a batting average of over .300 in interleague play over the past two years. Manager Kishida praised the talented hitter, who said, "Tomorrow is crucial," adding, "He (Nishikawa) gave us momentum, and everyone gave their all from the first inning." A strong start towards their first championship in five years. This man, who knows the Central League well, is a reliable asset. (Toru Nagata)