◆ Pacific League Nippon-Ham 4-3 Softbank Hawks (19th, ES CON FIELD)

On the 100th pitch, slider, he scored a swinging struck out, and Nippon-Ham Hiromi Ito pitcher (28) roared powerfully and left the mound. In the sixth inning, with one out and a runner on first, he threw three pitches in a row to Yanagida and Ishizuka struck out He pitched 4 hit 2 runs in 6 innings and 10 strike out, earning his league-leading 8th win. Softbank Hawks ended their losing streak of 8 games, marking their first win of the season in this series. "I did get a bit nervous, but since I was able to make the game, that was good," he nodded.

Finally subdued a formidable enemy. They lost eight straight games from the start of the season. In five of the eight matches, they scored first and came from behind to take the lead. Even after scoring four runs in the first inning, they couldn't win. He also started twice against Softbank Hawks, leaving the mound partway through the sixth inning each time. 5, 6, runs, and win couldn't be connected. "I think we were overly conscious. As a team, doing what we needed to do and winning is a big win, I think." With his own victory, he broke the negative cycle.

To break through the wall, he sought hints for a wide range of strategies. He watched videos of Seibu Lions 's Takahashi Hikaru, who has a perfect 4-0 record against Softbank Hawks this season, and Yakult 's Okugawa, who pitched shutout game against Softbank Hawks in the interleague series. "Things like curveballs from the outside and one-seam fastballs. I was also too conscious of throwing strong balls on the inside. By varying my pitches and throwing inside at crucial moments, I was able to overcome that." His narrow perspective broadened, allowing him to think more flexibly. This also led to greater peace of mind.

The team has maintained its positive momentum from the interleague games, and its lead is now a season-high eight games. They are now just one game behind second-place Softbank Hawks. After their long-awaited first win of the season, manager Shinjo commented happily, "We'll be going for it again tomorrow!" The first half of the season was more difficult than expected, including against Softbank Hawks. Riding the wave of momentum created by their ace pitcher, they are rapidly closing in on the top of the standings.

(Yamaguchi Yasushi)