[Softbank Hawks] Manager Hiroki Kokubo comments on preventing a stolen base with one out and a runner on first in the 7th inning: "It was a huge play." The call remained unchanged even after replay review. They then scored three runs to pull away immediately afterward. | Pacific League

[Softbank Hawks] Manager Hiroki Kokubo commented on the successful throw prevention in the 7th inning with one out and a runner on first base: "It was a huge decision." The call remained unchanged even after replay review. They then scored three runs to pull away immediately afterward.

Sports Hochi

June 10, 2026 21:39

Manager Hiroki Kokubo welcomes back Yuki Yanagita (right), who hit Home Run to right-center field with one out in the fourth inning (Photo by Shuji Asada).

◆Nippon Life Interleague Series 2026 Softbank Hawks 6-2 Hanshin Tigers (10th, Mizuho PayPay)

Softbank Hawks came from behind to win their fourth straight game. In the bottom of the seventh inning with a one-run defense and one out with a runner on first base, Hanshin Tigers manager Kyuji Fujikawa was ejected from the game because he was dissatisfied with the decision. Manager Kokubo reflected on defense that prevented the momentum from shifting, saying, "It was incredibly important."

Having avoided a further crisis, the team pulled away in the subsequent attack, scoring three runs, including a two-run homer by Kondo.