◆Nippon Life Interleague Series 2026 Chunichi 2-5 Seibu Lions (June 6, Vantelin Dome)

Seibu Lions pitcher Chihiro Sumida scored his first professional RBI with squeeze play in what may be his final at-bat as a professional.

In the bottom of the seventh inning, with a two-run lead, one out, and runners on second and third base, he stepped up to the plate as the team's fight song blared from the left field stands. "I didn't feel like the ball would go forward. Since Hasegawa was on third runner, I thought if I could do a good bunt, there was a chance we could score," he said, and squeeze surprised everyone by tilting his bat sideways against a 153 km/h fastball on the inside corner. The bunt, which he skillfully placed towards first base, resulted in a fielder's fielder’s choice by pitcher, and third runner Hasegawa scored, adding another run. "I decided to aim for first base, and I'm glad it worked out," he reflected. He raised both hands in celebration on first base.

Manager Nishiguchi also praised Sumida wholeheartedly, saying, "Sumida is good at it, so we went for a safety bunt. Hasegawa reacted well. With that pitcher, we wouldn't dare give a sign like that." For Sumida, who has yet to hit in his five years as a professional, it was a welcome first RBI. With the designated hitter system being introduced to Central League season, he was able to produce results in what may be his last at-bat as an active player, and he smiled shyly, saying, "I was happy. It's a memorable game."