◇ Hokkaido Nippon-Ham vs. Fukuoka Softbank, Game 10 (August 20th, ES CON FIELD)

Hokkaido Nippon-Ham 's Kengo Yoshida hit a two-run homer, his first of the season, to mount a comeback. This was his second Home Run against his former team, Fukuoka Softbank, where he also hit his first professional Home Run.

In the bottom of the 5th inning, trailing 0-6, leadoff hitter Ruan Ohtsuka hit doble, bringing in pinch hitter Yoshida. With a 1-1 count, on the third pitch thrown by opposing starter C. Stewart pitcher, Yoshida scooped up a low splitter and sent the ball soaring into the left field stands. It was a perfect hit, rewarding the coaching staff's trust in him.

The offense then drew two Walk, putting runners on first and second with one out, and Kotaro Kiyomiya hit a timely single to score a run, narrowing the gap to three runs. As the game entered its final stages, they refused to allow Fukuoka Softbank to take a safe lead.

Yoshida's powerful hitting was evident last season, with three of his four Home Run going to the opposite field. He showcased that characteristic power in this game as well. So far this season, he has been somewhat lackluster, with only two hit At Bat nine games, for a batting average of .118 (as of before the game), but he hopes this home run will be a springboard to improve his performance.

Written by Ao Yokoyama