Softbank Hawks 's Kazuki Sugiyama, who led Pacific League last season, has regained his consistency.

Sugiyama had a breakout season last year, appearing in 65 games and recording 3 wins, 4 losses, 10 hold, 31 ERA, and an ERA of 1.82. This season, he also served as the closer from the start of the season, but his pitch has been inconsistent, giving up 2 runs in the game against Nippon-Ham on March 28th and 3 runs in the game against Lotte on April 3rd, resulting in him being the lose pitcher.

He was removed from the active roster on April 11th, but returned to the active roster on May 8th. On the same day, closer a runs inning against Lotte, and has since runs on a 13-game scoreless streak. He has regained closer position and has recorded 7 saves since his return, bringing his total to 11 saves so far. ERA, which was 12.27 as of April 3rd, has now settled down to 2.89.

Softbank Hawks 's consistent performance in the 9th inning of their winning games has allowed them to play with greater stability. They hope to maintain this form once the league season resumes.