◇ Chiba Lotte Marines vs Hanshin Tigers "Nippon Life Central-League/League-Pacific Interleague 2026" Second Round (30th, Zozo Marine Stadium)

Chiba Lotte Marines Naonori Yasuda hit the first solo home run to tie the game.

He was promoted to the first team today and played starting line-up as the seventh batter third baseman. In the bottom of the second inning, trailing by one run, he had his first at-bat of the season. On the second pitch of the opposing starter, Shokki Murakami pitcher, he caught a low outside fastball, sending the ball into the back screen. In the regular season, the Home Run appeared for the first time in three seasons since October 10, 2023.

Although Yasuda recorded a Home Run in the 2024 "Persol CS Pa," he had a tough season with no Home Run in regular season for two years. Although he missed making the opening day roster this season, he has steadily posted results in 44 farm games, batting .299 with a .438 on-base percentage and an OPS of .850.

◇ Comment from Player Yasuda
"I hit fastball. I came to bat with all my might. I'm glad I got the best result in my first at-bat. I'll do my best next time too."

Text by Minagi Niwa