◆Nippon Life Interleague Series 2026 Softbank Hawks 3-2 Hanshin Tigers (11th, Mizuho PayPay Dome)

Softbank Hawks secured the winning run with Nomura's miraculous headfirst slide. "base running is The Hawks' weapon," said manager Kokubo proudly after the team achieved their third five-game winning streak of the season. Six consecutive home wins to start the interleague series is the first time in 15 years. They have taken another step closer to their 10th interleague championship.

In the fourth inning, Masaki hit a solo home run—his fifth of the season—to tie the game. Hanshin Tigers They hit a total of 10 home runs in this three-game series, a truly impressive feat. However, Softbank Hawks the team’s strength lies not only in their power but also in their flawless base running and solid defense. A prime example of this was Nomura’s run in the seventh inning with two outs and a runner on second, when he scored on Makihara Dai’s single to right field. base running “Timing-wise, I thought I was out, but thanks to throw veering off course a bit, I managed to get safe—I’m glad.” He slid headfirst, his left hand just missing the tag as he crossed home plate. Hanshin Tigers Manager Fujikawa requested a review, but the call stood.

The team is currently leading the interleague series with a 13-2 record, but Seibu Lions is in second place, just one game behind. While complacency is not an option, the team aims to clinch the championship as early as the 13th, and their next game is at home against Yakult. (Koichiro Shimao)