◆Nippon Life Interleague Series 2026 Chunichi 2-1 Rakuten Eagles (28th, Vantelin Dome)

Rakuten Eagles suffered a come-from-behind loss to Chunichi, extending their losing streak to three games. Their deficit has now reached a season-worst 10 games.

The game was close from the start. In the second inning, with no outs and runners on first and third, the team created a golden opportunity and scored the first run on a fielding error by third base. It was a crucial run. On the pitching side, starting pitcher Takinaka pitched well, allowing only four hit no runs over six innings. Regarding Takinaka's pitch manager Hajime Miki smiled and said, "He was able to get ahead in the count with strike, and he really controlled the game well with good rhythm. It was a very good pitching performance."

However, they couldn't hold on in the final stages. Third pitcher Suzuki Sho allowed Tanaka to reach base with an infield hit to shortstop, and then in the 8th inning with one out and a runner on second, he gave up a timely single to left field to Muramatsu, tying the game. Furthermore, fourth pitcher Nishigaki allowed the go-ahead run on sacrifice fly to center field by Itayama with one out and runners on first and third. The manager said, "It was difficult, or rather, with Murabayashi's defense ability (at shortstop), I would have liked him to get the out there (on infield hit at the start of the 8th inning). It's precisely because it's him (Murabayashi). He has experience, and considering the high level of his defense ability, I honestly think he should have gotten the out there. However, it is we who make those kinds of plays and use them in the game. As a team, I think the theme will be how we desperately try to get each and every out."

The batting lineup also scored one run in front of the starter, Kanemaru. Kanemaru throws a very strong ball pitcher, and I think it's difficult for him to do so, but I wish the batting lineup could have supported Takinaka a little more," he said regretfully.

The team's deficit is a season-worst 10 games, and they continue to be in a difficult situation. From the 29th, they will return to their home ground and play against Yakult. They are desperate to break this bad streak. The manager emphasized, "We have another game tomorrow. We will prepare thoroughly, and no matter the situation, we will fight with all our might. We will fight hard again tomorrow."