The first game of the "Nippon Life Interleague Series 2026" between Chiba Lotte Marines and Chunichi will be held at Zozo Marine Stadium on June 9th at 6 PM.

[Last season's head-to-head record] Chiba Lotte Marines vs. Chunichi: 0 wins, 3 losses

[Announced Starting Pitcher]
Chiba Lotte Marines: pitcher Jackson: 10 games, 3 wins, 5 losses, ERA 3.59
Chunichi: pitcher Marler has a record of 1 win and 3 losses in 6 games, ERA of 2.97.

Chiba Lotte Marines will start pitcher Jackson. In his previous start (June 2nd against Tokyo Yakult), he pitched seven runs innings with 132 pitches, earning a win and achieving his fourth consecutive quality start. The team has gone through 12 extra inning in two consecutive games, putting a heavy burden on the relief pitchers. He will be hoping to pitch as many inning as possible in this game.

All eyes will be on the batting lineup to see if Tsuyoshi Yamazaki, who just signed a professional contract on the 5th, can get his first hit since joining the team.