◆Nippon Life Interleague Series 2026: Lotte 4-2 Hanshin Tigers (May 31st, ZOZO Marine Stadium)

Lotte's outfielder Koki Yamaguchi hit a two-doble in the 8th inning to take the lead, preventing the team from being swept in their home series.

In the bottom of the 8th inning, with the score tied 2-2 and one out with runners on first and second, Yamaguchi connected with Moretta's fifth pitch, a 134 km/h slider high and outside, sending it to right-center field for a go-ahead two-run doble. After confirming that Nishikawa, runner on first, had scored, he raised his left hand and exclaimed, "This is the best! All the times we've had chances against Hiroshima, the ball has been right at the fielders, so I'm so happy that it finally got through!"

Regarding his position as the cleanup hitter, he said, "It's a results-oriented world. I feel a sense of responsibility to do my best there," and added, "I'm not in a position to be complacent. Every day is a battle. I come to the stadium thinking that if I don't get a hit today, there won't be a tomorrow. I want to keep that strong feeling in mind and continue to do my best."

Manager Saburo commented on the cleanup hitter's performance, saying, "He's really fired up this year. It feels like he's letting out all the pent-up energy he's had up until now, so I'm very happy."