Tomotaka Sakaguchi: "Each player is trying to fulfill their role" - The "connected" Seibu Lions batting lineup

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Seibu Lions manager Fumiya Nishiguchi (C) Kyodo News
Seibu Lions manager Fumiya Nishiguchi (C) Kyodo News

Tomotaka Sakaguchi and Takahiro Saeki, who appeared on "Pro baseball News 2026" broadcast on Fuji TV ONE on the 20th, commented on Seibu Lions batting lineup.

Seibu Lions won their game Orix Buffaloes on the same day with 9 hit 4 runs, win 4-0. Sakaguchi commented, "They seem to be doing what they're capable of, just doing the normal things, like getting runner on base and getting to two outs, but someone always manages to bring them home."

In the fifth inning, with the score 2-0, one out, and a runner on first base, Shinya Hasegawa came up to bat and executed a hit-and-run play, which resulted in a timely doble that added another run. Sakaguchi commented on this play, saying, "The opponent was on guard, expecting us to make a move, and we were able to do it, and it worked. It's partly due to the team's good situation, and it's not just about good momentum, but I think the biggest factor is that each player is trying to fulfill their role."

Saeki also smiled and said, "They're strong. You can see the connection between them just by watching. From the interleague games onwards, they've been attacking all at once when they need a run, when it's a crucial moment. And the players respond. As Sakaguchi-san also said, you really get the feeling that the players understand their roles."

☆ Cooperation: Fuji TV ONE "Professional baseball News 2026"

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Tomotaka Sakaguchi: "Each player is trying to fulfill their role" - The "connected" Seibu Lions batting lineup