Tomotaka Sakaguchi, who appeared on "Pro baseball News 2026" broadcast on Fuji TV ONE on the 30th, commented on Rakuten's five-game losing Rakuten Eagles in the interleague series.

Rakuten Eagles lost to Yakult, Central League leaders, but they scored 3 runs off closer Kihada in the 9th inning when they were trailing 4-8, showing that their offense is now cooperating, which is a positive sign heading into the third game on the 31st.

Sakaguchi said, "It's about persistence, or rather, the fact that we were able to score, and there were also errors by the opponent, but the important thing is to score first." He added, "I think that getting runner on base, putting pressure on the opponent, and continuing the attack, and then scoring, is one of the elements that energizes the batting lineup. When we start scoring like that, hitter will get motivated and feel like they can do it, and if they keep scoring, I think they'll come back."

☆ Cooperation: Fuji TV ONE "Professional baseball News 2026"