◆ Pacific League Softbank Hawks 6-0 Seibu Lions (30th, Tokyo Dome)

Softbank Hawks fans who filled Big Egg Stadium rejoiced in the joyous celebrations. "I was determined to take the lead," said Uwasawa, who runs six scoreless innings in the crucial first game of the three-game series against Seibu Lions for first place. He earned his fourth win of the season, his first in 60 days since May 1st, and the team took the top spot for the first time in 70 days since April 21st.

In his second year with the team, he was given the opening pitcher but was removed from the roster on May 17 due to a right elbow injury, making this his second game back with the first team. He shut down Seibu Lions lineup with his fastball, which reached a maximum speed of 152 km/h, and his sharp-breaking fork. He felt confident, saying, "The condition of my right elbow is getting better with each pitch."

"I wasn't really thinking about the battle for first place, but I wanted to win the first game of the Hawks Festival. Uwasawa pitch really well," said manager Kokubo, pleased. The annual Hawks Festival, which started with a home game at Tokyo Dome on this day, will consist of a total of nine games until July 12th. Behind Uwasawa's excellent pitching, while wearing a brand new, white-based special uniform, was the assistance of the staff. Only the starting right-handed pitcher's "battle gear" had been washed once. "It shouldn't be stiff," said equipment manager Murakami Seiichi, showing consideration to make it easier to fit his body.

Since relocating to Fukuoka, the team, including staff, is united in its quest for the club's first-ever three consecutive league championships. "Even though we're only halfway through, it feels great to be in first place. Let's keep this momentum going," said Chairman Oh. Having finished June with a nine-game winning record, the team is aiming to pull away from the close competition in July. (Koichiro Shimao)