◆Nippon Life Interleague Series 2026 Softbank Hawks 10-4 Hanshin Tigers (June 9, Mizuho PayPay Stadium)

Softbank Hawks ・Manager Yuki Kokubo commented on Akira Nakamura infielder, who was removed from the active roster that day.

The veteran, in his 19th professional season, appeared in 23 games, mainly as a pinch hitter, with a batting average of .129. Although he contributed with Walk and RBI that weren't timely hits, manager Kokubo revealed, "We had a long talk at the dome yesterday. As we approach the crucial final stages of the season, we want him to be a pinch-hitting ace and an important piece of the puzzle for winning the championship, so we're going to send him to the farm team for now."

The game ended with Softbank Hawks winning decisively, tying Pacific League record with five consecutive inning Home Run, and maintaining their lead in the interleague standings.